I was wondering if there are any options to retain the stock JK bumper but use an aftermarket skid plate? Want to get rid of the useless plastic bumper skid plate

 

The plastic one isn't a skid plate. It's an air dam to help create a low pressure behind the radiator.
Quadratec has some steel skid plates for the stock front bumper.

 

2016 JKU here, I did a heavy duty front skid plate at the same time I did the bumper. Uses 2 of the 8 bolts from the bumper and then bolts on the front cross member and it’s solid. Rather be heavy and protected then unprotected from front approaching dangers.

 

can you send a picture of it installed? Just wanting to make sure it’s what I was going for before ordering it