The Detroit Lions have experienced several changes in their kicking game this season.

Initially, incumbent kicker Michael Badgley was placed on injured reserve due to a season-ending hamstring injury.

To fill his role, the Lions brought in Jake Bates, a kicker known for his powerful leg from his time in the UFL.

Recently, the Lions added veteran kicker Greg Joseph to their practice squad, as confirmed by his agent, Brett Tessler.

Joseph, originally from South Africa, has spent the past five years in the NFL, with the last three as the Minnesota Vikings’ primary kicker.

During the offseason, he signed with the Green Bay Packers but did not make the final 53-man roster after a competitive kicking battle. Now, he joins his third consecutive NFC North team.

Detroit initially chose Bates as their main kicker after their own kicking competition during training camp.

Although Bates showed some inconsistency in training camp, he managed to perform well during preseason and Week 1, showcasing the skills that earned him his NFL spot.

The Lions have a history of actively evaluating their kickers, as seen last year when they brought in Badgley to replace Riley Patterson midseason.

While Bates currently holds the kicking position, the Lions’ recent history suggests they will continue to monitor and challenge him throughout the season. Bates will need to consistently prove his performance to keep Joseph from potentially replacing him.