The Detroit Lions, along with the Washington Commanders, Green Bay Packers, and Baltimore Ravens, are among the clubs interested in assessing kicker Jake Bates as a possible addition to their squad, according to NFL source Aaron Wilson.
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A Promising Season for Jake Bates with the Michigan Panthers
During his outstanding rookie campaign, Bates—whose team plays at Ford Field alongside the Lions—made a big impression. With a spectacular 64-yard field goal to start the season, Bates was unstoppable, making 17 of his 22 field goal attempts. With the majority of his misses coming from longer attempts, he demonstrated his powerful leg, which has drawn interest from multiple NFL teams, and his performance won him All-UFL honours.
Lions’ Present Kicker Contest
The Lions’ continued competition for kickers gains a new angle with their interest in Bates. James Turner, an undrafted rookie, and incumbent kicker Michael Badgley are currently being evaluated by the organisation. Following recent team exercises, Lions special teams coach Dave Fipp voiced his satisfaction with both players. Turner has impressed with his strong and steady kicking, while Badgley has been focusing on increasing his range.
“Badgley has put a lot of effort into expanding his range a little bit further than it has previously, and he looks fantastic doing it. Thus, I’m thrilled about him,” Fipp remarked. Conversely, Turner possesses an enormous leg. Even if he doesn’t hit a tonne of long balls, he still has a lot of leg left in him.
The UFL Playoff Performance of Bates
Despite a 44-yard kick being blocked, Bates showed his skill by helping the Panthers convert four of six field goals during the recent UFL playoffs. The Panthers ultimately fell short against the Birmingham Stallions, 31–18, but Bates’ performance cemented his standing as a dependable kicker with a good range.
Lions Giving Bates Serious Thought
The Lions have been keeping a close eye on Bates, and it appears from their curiosity that they are considering adding him to strengthen their special teams unit. In evaluating their present kicker possibilities, Bates is a strong contender to elevate their kicking game due to his strong leg and productive season with the Panthers.
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