Just a few days ago, Matt Prater wasn’t even connected to the Buffalo Bills.
At 41, many thought his NFL career had already wrapped up.
But by Sunday night, he was right back in the spotlight—kicking the game-winner in a dramatic showdown against the Baltimore Ravens.
From Couch to Game-Winner
Fans could hardly believe their eyes.
Prater, who seemed like he was enjoying retirement, stepped in and delivered a clutch field goal as the clock hit zero.
That kick sealed a 41-40 victory over one of the AFC’s toughest opponents, leaving the stadium in shock.
Why Prater Got the Call
The Bills weren’t planning on bringing him in until disaster struck.
Their usual kicker, Tyler Bass, went down with a serious injury and landed on injured reserve last week.
Suddenly, Buffalo needed someone reliable, and Prater’s name was on the list.
He hopped on a late-night flight, joined the practice squad, and was quickly bumped to the active roster just in time for a playoff rematch-style clash.
A Career Built on Consistency
Prater isn’t a stranger to pressure.
Over nearly two decades in the NFL, fans remember him best from his years with the Cardinals and Lions, racking up more than 450 field goals.
His track record speaks for itself, but Sunday’s kick reminded everyone why experience matters in the big moments.
Fans Have Jokes
Of course, NFL fans couldn’t resist having fun with his return.
One quipped that he looked like a “random grandpa pulled from the stands.”
Another compared him to “your dad’s college buddy at a Halloween party.”
Social media filled with GIFs, jokes about him making a Target run after the game, and reminders that he’s only eight months younger than Aaron Rodgers.
Winning the Locker Room
On the field, though, Prater was no joke.
His teammates swarmed him after the decisive kick, showing instant respect for the veteran.
He went five-for-five on the night—three field goals and two extra points—with none bigger than that 32-yarder as the scoreboard hit all zeroes.
What Comes Next for Buffalo
Prater isn’t just a one-night solution.
With Bass sidelined until at least Week 5, he’ll remain the Bills’ starter for the next few games.
And if Sunday is any indication, Buffalo fans might be more than okay with that.
After all, other legendary kickers like Morten Andersen and Adam Vinatieri proved that 40-somethings can still shine in the NFL.