Jake Bates' impressive 64-yard kick for the Michigan Panthers during the 2024 UFL season opener caught the attention of Lions' special teams coordinator Dave Fipp. This extraordinary play highlighted Bates' talent, leading to his signing with the Lions, who achieved a franchise record 15 wins the following season. Bates' successful season included three game-winning field goals and consistent performance on the field. He credits the UFL for giving him the opportunity to showcase his skills, emphasizing its role in advancing his career in professional football.
"That league did for me what it's built for. It's built to give people a stage and I was able to get that stage and without that I'm not here. So, I owe so much to the UFL and to the Panthers."
"That was the first time that I had heard about him and then obviously that year he had a great year and so you looked at the tape, you watched more about him."
Collection
[
|
...
]