**Detroit, MI** – The Detroit Lions have officially signed UFL standout kicker Jake Bates to a two-year contract worth up to $1.98 million, according to the team’s announcement on Tuesday. Bates, who recently played for the Michigan Panthers, will receive $150,000 guaranteed and a $100,000 signing bonus as part of the agreement. Concurrently, the Lions have waived James Turner, a former kicker from the University of Michigan.
Jake Bates made a significant impact in the UFL, particularly with the Michigan Panthers last spring. He converted 17 of his 22 field goal attempts, including three remarkable field goals from 60 yards or beyond, one of which was a 64-yard game-winner. Bates also excelled at mid-range distances, successfully making all seven attempts from 40-49 yards and achieving a 64% success rate for kicks over 50 yards.
Before joining the UFL, Bates had a brief stint in the NFL with the Houston Texans, appearing in a preseason game where he made two of three extra-point attempts. His collegiate career included two seasons at Texas State and one at Arkansas. During his senior year with the Razorbacks in 2022, Bates earned First-Team All-SEC honors as a kickoff specialist, leading the SEC with an average of 64.47 yards per kickoff—a figure that placed him fourth nationally. That season, he also achieved the highest touchback percentage in the country and successfully executed his only onside kick attempt.
Bates joins the Lions roster with a promising track record and will compete for the starting kicker position alongside Michael Badgley. Badgley has been a reliable performer for the Lions, making 24 of his 28 field goal attempts over the last two seasons. The addition of Bates introduces a competitive dynamic, offering the Lions an opportunity to enhance their special teams with his impressive leg strength and accuracy from long distances.
The Lions’ decision to sign Bates reflects their strategy to strengthen their kicking game ahead of the new season. With Bates’ demonstrated ability to make crucial long-range kicks and his solid performance record, the Lions aim to bolster their special teams unit.
Bates’ entry into the Lions’ roster brings excitement and anticipation as he competes for the primary kicking role. Fans will be keen to see how Bates’ UFL success translates to the NFL stage and what impact he will have on the Lions’ performance this season.
The Lions’ management, coaching staff, and fanbase will closely watch Bates’ progress as he integrates into the team and vies for a spot as the starting kicker, hoping his talents will translate into on-field success and provide a significant boost to their special teams lineup.