Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/40356126/lions-signing-ufl-kicker-jake-bates-2-year-deal

Lions signing UFL kicker Jake Bates to 2-year deal

The Detroit Lions are signing former Florida kicker Jake Bates to a two-year deal, according to a source. Bates was a standout kicker for the Gators during his college career. He will compete for the starting kicker job with Riley Patterson. The Lions drafted Patterson in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL draft, and he has been the team's starting kicker since then. Bates most recently played in the United States Football League (USFL) for the New Orleans Breakers. He has the potential to be a valuable asset for the Lions, especially if he can provide competition to Patterson.

Summary

"The Detroit Lions are hoping that Jake Bates can add competition to the kicker position, with the potential to eventually become the team's starter. This is a low-risk, high-reward signing for the Lions, who are looking to improve their kicking game after a lackluster performance in 2022."

Updated at: 06.16.2024