Former Razorback starring in UFL is receiving NFL interest from Lions, others

It's not often we consider kickers must-watch players. Most kickers are replaceable and unreliable every year outside Baltimore Ravens star Justin Tucker. The prospect of finding the next difference-maker at the position makes former Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Jake Bates especially intriguing. 

Currently playing for the Michigan Panthers of the UFL, Bates has been drilling deep kicks since the season began. He's already made kicks of 64, 62, 60, 55, and 52 yards out. The powerful-legged kicker has come a long way since starting his career at Texas State in 2020.

Bates spent two seasons with the Bobcats before transferring to Arkansas. As a kickoff specialist, he earned First-Team All-SEC honors and led the conference with an average of 64.47 yards per kickoff. He also ranked third with 64 kickbacks on 75 attempts.

He never attempted a field goal or extra point in college, though.

It's not a surprise the NFL has noticed. Detroit News writer Tony Paul reported that the Lions have already contacted Bates. Bates began his career with the Houston Texas but never attempted a kick before getting released.

Now 12-for-14 overall on the season, Bates has made a name for himself. He's currently under contract with the UFL, meaning that NFL teams can't sign him yet. Bates said he's not even able to hear from NFL teams, refuting Paul's report, as the league doesn't allow NFL interference while the season is ongoing.

Would you like your team to sign Bates and compete for a roster spot?