Who is Tyler Bass? Tyler Bass, born on February 14, 1997, in Columbia, South Carolina, has become one of the NFL's most reliable kickers. Starting his athletic journey at Dutch Fork High School, Bass excelled in both football and soccer. His grandmother's encouragement led him to pursue football, a decision that would shape his future. Committing to Georgia Southern University, Bass honed his skills, eventually catching the eye of NFL scouts. Drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2020, he quickly made a name for himself with clutch performances and record-setting kicks. Known for his consistency under pressure, Bass continues to be a key player for the Bills.
Key Takeaways:
- Tyler Bass, a former soccer player, became a record-breaking NFL kicker for the Buffalo Bills, setting franchise records and earning accolades for his consistency and clutch performances.
- Bass's strong leg and dedication to his craft have made him a key player for the Buffalo Bills, with a contract extension highlighting his promising future in the NFL.
Early Life and High School
Tyler Bass's journey to the NFL began in Columbia, South Carolina. His early years were marked by a love for sports, particularly soccer, which laid the foundation for his future career.
- Tyler Bass was born on February 14, 1997, in Columbia, South Carolina.
- He attended Dutch Fork High School in Irmo, South Carolina.
- At Dutch Fork, he played both football and soccer.
- His grandmother encouraged him to try out for the football team due to his strong soccer leg.
College Career at Georgia Southern
Bass's college years were pivotal in shaping his skills and preparing him for the professional stage. His time at Georgia Southern University was marked by significant achievements and growth.
- Bass committed to Georgia Southern University on January 31, 2015.
- Initially redshirted as a true freshman, he saw significant improvement in his redshirt junior season.
- In his redshirt junior season, he made 19 of 21 field goal attempts.
- He also completed 45 of 45 extra point attempts that season.
- Bass participated in the 2020 Senior Bowl, making 2 field goals and 4 of 4 extra point attempts.
Entry into the NFL
Bass's transition to the NFL was marked by his selection in the draft and his subsequent signing with the Buffalo Bills. His early professional career showcased his potential and set the stage for his future success.
- The Buffalo Bills selected Bass in the sixth round (188th overall) of the 2020 NFL draft.
- He signed a four-year, $3.475 million contract with the Buffalo Bills on May 7, 2020.
- In his professional debut against the New York Jets on September 13, 2020, Bass completed all three of his extra point attempts but was 2 for 4 on field goal attempts.
- He made his next four field goal attempts over the next five games, including a 48-yarder against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 6.
- Bass set several franchise records in that game, including the most field goal attempts attempted by a Bills kicker in one game.
Record-Breaking Performances
Bass quickly made a name for himself with record-breaking performances that highlighted his accuracy and consistency. These achievements solidified his reputation as a reliable kicker.
- In a rematch against the Jets, Bass completed 6 of 8 field goal attempts, including a new career-long 53-yard attempt.
- He became the first kicker in Bills history to make three field goals longer than 50 yards in one game.
- Bass is just the second kicker in NFL history to make 3 field goals longer than 54 yards in the same game.
- He converted 28 of his 34 field goal attempts in the 2020 season.
- Bass also made 57 of his 59 extra points that season.
- His 141 points broke Steve Christie's 1998 franchise-record of 140 points in a single season.
- Bass also broke Scott Norwood's franchise records of extra points attempted and made in a single season.
Continued Success and Recognition
Bass's consistency and clutch performances earned him recognition and accolades, further establishing his status as a premier NFL kicker.
- Bass was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Month for October 2021.
- In the 2021 season, he converted all 51 extra point attempts.
- He also made 28 of 32 field goal attempts that season.
- Bass holds the Bills franchise record for most field goals attempted in a game with 8.
- He shares the record for most field goals made in a game with 6.
- Bass's 141 points in a single season remain a franchise record.
Physical Attributes and Skills
Bass's physical attributes and skills have played a crucial role in his success. His strong leg and accuracy make him a valuable asset to the Buffalo Bills.
- Bass stands at 5 feet 10 inches (1.79 meters) and weighs 183 pounds (83 kilograms).
- His arm length is 29.5 inches (0.75 meters).
- His hand span is 8.75 inches (0.22 meters).
- During his college career, Bass earned multiple awards, including being named to the All-Sun Belt Conference team multiple times.
- He received the honor of Special Teams Player of the Year in college.
Personal Life and Interests
Off the field, Bass maintains a disciplined lifestyle and focuses on his career. His personal life and interests reflect his dedication and commitment to his profession.
- Bass has never been arrested and is known for his professional demeanor both on and off the field.
- He credits his grandmother for convincing him to try out for the football team.
- Bass continues to wear eye black under one eye as a tribute to his grandmother.
- His strong soccer leg was a key factor in his transition to football.
Recent Achievements and Future Prospects
Bass's recent achievements and future prospects indicate a promising career ahead. His continued performances and contract extension with the Buffalo Bills highlight his importance to the team.
- In the 2024 campaign, Bass marked the first points for the Bills with a 37-yard field goal.
- He joined the ranks of Scott Norwood in the Bills’ legendary “wide right” history.
- Bass signed a contract extension with the Buffalo Bills in April 2023.
- In Week 1 of the 2023 season, his game-tying 50-yard field goal hit the upright and fell through, sending the game to overtime against the New York Jets.
- Bass made significant contributions in playoff games, including a 27-yard field goal that opened scoring in the 2023-24 AFC Divisional Round against the Kansas City Chiefs.
- He has maintained a high level of consistency in scoring, converting a significant percentage of his field goal attempts and extra points throughout his career.
- Bass has been instrumental in leading the Buffalo Bills’ special teams unit.
- He holds several franchise records for the Buffalo Bills.
- As of the end of the 2023 season, Bass has played 66 games, converting 126 of 210 field goal attempts and 205 of 205 extra points.
- His career longevity metrics include a 62.3% field goal percentage and a 61.3% kickoff average.
- Bass’s leadership style is characterized by his work ethic, dedication, and ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Fans have recognized his contributions to the team, often praising his clutch performances.
- Bass has received extensive media coverage for his performances.
- With his contract extension and continued performances, Bass is expected to remain a key player for the Buffalo Bills.
Tyler Bass: A Kicking Sensation
Tyler Bass has quickly become one of the NFL's most reliable kickers. From his high school days in South Carolina to his standout college career at Georgia Southern, Bass has shown incredible talent and dedication. Drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2020, he’s set franchise records and earned accolades like AFC Special Teams Player of the Month. Known for his clutch performances and consistency, Bass has become a key player for the Bills. His journey is a testament to hard work and resilience, making him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the league. With a contract extension in place, Bass’s future with the Bills looks bright. His story inspires young athletes and showcases the importance of perseverance. Tyler Bass is not just a kicker; he’s a game-changer.
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