Entering the 2025 offseason, the Detroit Lions had 48 players with expiring contracts. Many of those players were lower on the depth chart, so finding replacements isn't as hard. However, the Lions did have a decent number of starters, and well-known backups hit free agency.
While some of those players returned, others didn't. Of the 48 Lions that hit free agency, Detroit brought 20 back, many of whom are indeed bottom of the depth chart guys. That said, there are still 11 Lions from the 2024 roster that remain unsigned.
Although most of the players still available are nothing more than backups, there are a few former Lions who can still contribute to a team's starting lineup. One of those players is kicker Michael Badgley. Badgley's time in Detroit was underwhelming, but he has proven to be effective when healthy. Therefore, don't be surprised if he ends up on a roster before the 2025 season starts.
Ex-Lion Kicker Michael Badgley Will Be Next Ex-Lion to Find a New Home
The Lions brought Badgley in after the first month of the 2022 season to replace a struggling Austin Seibert. That season, he connected on 83.3% (20/24) of his field goals and 100% (33/33) of his extra points.
In 2023, Badgley was yet again the Lions' second choice at kicker, this time behind Riley Patterson. Ultimately, the 29-year-old only played four regular-season games in 2023, making 100% (40/4) of his field goals and 86% (13/15) of his extra points. Although he struggled in the playoffs, going 1/3 (33%) on field goals, Detroit was still confident in him to be the starter in 2024.
Unfortunately, Badgley suffered a torn hamstring during training camp, which sidelined him for the whole season. As a result of this injury, the Lions signed United Football League kicker Jake Bates, who will be sticking with him going forward.
Nevertheless, Badgley's career field goal percentage of 82.4% suggests he can still go to a team looking for a steady veteran presence. Currently, the San Francisco 49ers are looking to add competition for Jake Moody, and the Arizona Cardinals could upgrade from Chad Ryland (77.2 field goal percentage in his career).
Badgley's next destination remains unclear, don't be surprised if he gets a shot on a team's 90-man preseason roster.