Kicker Signed in Early August Released Immediately Ahead of Upcoming Preseason Game

Kicker Signed in Early August Released Immediately Ahead of Upcoming Preseason Game

In a stunning turn of events, rookie kicker Caden Davis of the Buffalo Bills has been released just weeks after being signed on August 8, 2025. The decision came right before the final preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on August 23, leaving the Bills Mafia community in disbelief. The official reason cited by the team’s management is Davis’s unprofessional attitude and subpar performance level during practice and prior exhibition games.

Davis, who set a scoring record at Ole Miss and was brought on board to fill in for the injured Tyler Bass, failed to meet expectations. In the preseason opener against the New York Giants on August 9, he managed only 1 out of 2 field goal attempts, with the rest handled by running back Ray Davis. Insider sources revealed that Caden Davis’s attitude during training camp—arriving late and showing a lack of teamwork—severely damaged his reputation with the coaching staff.

Head coach Sean McDermott addressed the decision during a press conference on August 20. He stated:
"Caden had potential, but his attitude was a real issue. We can’t tolerate a player who doesn’t respect his teammates and the training schedule."

McDermott added:
"His skill level just isn’t up to NFL standards. We need a kicker who’s ready to fight, not someone coasting on college fame."

The release was announced alongside the signing of cornerback Zy Alexander, running back Elijah Young, and offensive lineman Rush Reimer, indicating the Bills are restructuring their roster ahead of the regular season. Davis’s departure not only shocked fans but also put pressure on Tyler Bass, who is recovering from a hip injury and expected to return for the upcoming game.

The Bills Mafia community is divided over the incident. Some support McDermott’s call, arguing Davis wasn’t up to par, while others regret the decision, believing he deserved more time. One X post read: "Caden might’ve been good at Ole Miss, but clearly NFL is a different beast. Bye bye!" Meanwhile, another fan commented: "Poor attitude is unacceptable, but it’s a shame—Bills could’ve given him more time."

This situation raises questions about the Bills’ recruitment strategy and the adaptability of rookies in the critical 2025 season. With the final preseason game just days away, the team is scrambling to find a replacement to ensure stability before the regular season opener against the Baltimore Ravens on September 7.