The Detroit Lions are rumored to sign Jake Bates early next week. Jake Bates proved to be a sensational UFL kicker last season.
Jake Bates caught the eye of three other NFL Clubs: the Packers, Commanders, and Ravens. It is still just a rumor at this point. Will Jake Bates sign with the Lions? If so it could be as early as Tuesday, June 18th.
Bates Strong Leg Could Rescue the Lions In 2024
Bates had zero field goals in college. As soon as he entered the UFL his game changed. And he became the longest field goal kicker in UFL history. In his sensational first season, he hit an amazing 64-yard FG. He also achieved the following: 62, 60, 55, and 52-yard goals.
“Bates quickly became one of the most fascinating stories in the UFL this season. After not kicking a single field goal in college—serving as the kickoff specialist—Bates came into the UFL as the Panthers’ primary kicker and immediately became a sensation. In the season opener, Bates showed off his leg strength and clutchness by booting a 64-yard field goal to win the game. As an added bonus for the Lions, Bates’ home field was the same as theirs: Ford Field”.
Will the Lions Keep All Three Kickers or Release One?
The Lions already have two kickers, Michael Badgley and James Turner. It would be unusual to have three kickers. However, the Lions roster has an opening due to the release of CB Craig James from injured reserve a few days ago.
Michael Badgley was 4 for 4 on FG last season however he may not be the long snapper kicker the Lions are seeking for the 2024 season. Badgley’s longest FG is 59 yards. And he has made 98 out of 119 attempts or 82.4%. John Maakaron reported earlier in June about the Lions minicamp:
“In reviewing minicamp notes on the kicking battle, Turner did not miss a kick during team periods. While Badgley was also impressive, he finished with more misses throughout the week”.
The big question is will the Lions release Michael Badgley after they sign Bates? See more stats by following this link.
Will Jake Bates Break Justin Tucker’s Record
Justin Tucker is a kicker for the Baltimore Ravens and is the most accurate kicker of all time. His longest kick was 66 yards just 2 yards greater than Bates. Is it possible we have two Hall of Farmers in the making? Tucker is a five-time first-team All-Pro with three great qualities, accuracy, consistency, and power. He rates 90.2% in conversions.
Of course, we will not see these two teams playing on the same field, but it will be interesting to follow these two kickers.
About the Author
Lori was born in Jacksonville, Florida. She was in Jacksonville when the Jaguars became the 30th NFL Franchise. Her son began playing football in middle school and continued playing through his senior year of high school. Lori’s daughter was born during a Super Bowl game. She and her family are avid sports enthusiasts.
Lori is a freelance writer with Total Apex Sports and is dedicated to creating interesting, accurate, and concise articles. Lori reports that writing for Total Apex Sports is an honor, and each day is full of exciting experiences.
Lori has a bachelor’s degree in Business Management with an emphasis on Project Management and has written technical documents for more than a decade.
You may contact Lori by email at lori@loriratto.com. Visit www.loriratto.com and follow me on X lorirattolori
For More Great Content
Check out all the great content Total Apex Sports has to offer. Check us out on X @TotalApexSports and our other sites: Total Apex Sports Bets and Total Apex Fantasy Sports
