Jake Bates: Detroit Lions among teams requesting visit with UFL kicker

The time has finally come: UFL star and Michigan Panthers kicker Jake Bates can finally visit NFL teams, and the Detroit Lions are reportedly among those interested in the standout kicker.

According to Aaron Wilson of Click2Houston.com, the Lions are one of at least four teams that have requested Bates during his free agent visit, along with the Green Bay Packers, Washington Commanders and Baltimore Ravens.

Bates’ popularity has skyrocketed in the 2024 UFL season after scoring several long-range goals, including three 60-plus goals and a total of 50-plus goals in the playoffs. Thanks to his impressive performance, Bates immediately caught the attention of NFL teams.

#Commanders #Packers #Crosses #Ravens I asked to be admitted @USFLPanthers – all-conference player Jake Bates for visits, according to a league source. It’s a difficult situation for a strong-legged former player #Texans member of the pre-season squad i @TomballISD graduate @RazorbackFB @KPRC2

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) June 11, 2024

Ultimately, Bates finished the regular season 17-of-22, but missed three of his final five field goals in the last three contests. Then last weekend, he scored 4 of 6 points in the Panthers’ playoff loss to the Birmingham Stallions, while also starting an off-the-court play that the Stallions converted into points.

Also in this game, Bates injured his foot on a block field goal. It’s unclear whether this will affect his ability to work in teams, so it’s something to keep an eye on.

The Lions currently have a kicker competition between veteran Michael Badgley and undrafted free agent James Turner, with the latter giving the former a chance to win. It certainly wouldn’t hurt to add Bates to the competition.