Last season, the Detroit Lions became one of the best teams in the NFL, reaching the NFC Conference Championship. But there’s a sense they’re just getting started.
Another excellent offseason by GM Brad Holmes has put head coach Dan Campbell in a strong position to take another step forward. The Lions appear to be on the approach of acquiring another potentially crucial piece to their lineup. According to KPRC’s Aaron Wilson, the Lions are set to sign Michigan Panthers kicker Jake Bates, who has swiftly emerged as one of the UFL’s top players for the 2024 season.
To say Bates has a large leg is an understatement. Bates not only made a 64-yard field goal, but he also kicked two 60-yarders during the regular season.
Still just 24, this won’t be the former Arkansas kicker’s first cup of coffee in the NFL. He previously signed on as an undrafted free agent with the Houston Texans last year when he was a rookie.
After the excellent season Bates had, he was always a lock to receive a contract offer, likely several of them, from multiple NFL teams. But now that the Panthers’ season is over, NFL teams are free to pursue him beginning Tuesday, which is when the signing is expected to be made official.
However, just because Bates has starred in the NFL does not guarantee him a starting spot with the Lions. He’ll continue to compete with Michael Badgley and undrafted rookie James Turner. Because he’ll be kicking in a controlled atmosphere at Ford Field, we believe Bates has a good chance of joining the 15 longest field goal makers in NFL history, but first he must make the final 53-man roster.
