Jake Bates Comes Up Just Short of NFL History
The Detroit Lions and their promising kicker, Jake Bates, were tantalizingly close to etching their names in the NFL record books during a thrilling matchup on Monday Night Football against the Baltimore Ravens. As the first half drew to a close, the Lions opted to have Bates attempt a monumental 67-yard field goal—one that, if successful, would have eclipsed the previous record held by former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker at 66 yards. However, with all eyes on him, Bates’ kick veered just wide to the left, leaving the record intact for now.
The Rise of Jake Bates
Jake Bates’ journey to the NFL is a testament to perseverance and determination. A native of Central Arkansas, Bates’ collegiate career took him through Texas State and Arkansas, though he had a unique path. Notably, he was primarily utilized as a kickoff specialist and never attempted a field goal during his time in college.
Before making his mark in the NFL, Bates had brief offseason stints with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans but ultimately did not secure a spot on their rosters. Facing uncertainty, he took on the role of a brick salesman in Houston, which might seem far from the gridiron. However, fate intervened when he joined the UFL’s Michigan Panthers in 2024, where his performance caught the eye of NFL scouts. The Lions took notice and signed him to a two-year contract, providing him with the opportunity to replace veteran kicker Michael Badgley, who suffered a hamstring injury.
Bates’ Impressive Footprint
Since joining the Lions, Bates has quickly established himself as one of the most reliable kickers in the league. His previous experience in the UFL proved invaluable; he made a notable 64-yard field goal during that season, showcasing his powerful leg. In the NFL, his longest successful kick to date has been 58 yards, hinting at the potential for even greater distances, as demonstrated by his ambitious 67-yard attempt on Monday night.
Looking Ahead
While Bates may have come up short in his quest for NFL history, his journey and potential have captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. As the Lions continue their season, all eyes will remain on Bates, who is not only on the cusp of breaking records but has already become a vital asset to the team’s success. With his determination and talent, the possibility of future record-setting kicks seems well within reach.
