Star kicker Jake Bates is looking better than ever as he enters his second season with the Detroit Lions.
Jake Bates had a phenomenal debut campaign with the Detroit Lions in 2024, and it looks like the reliable kicker is ready to have another standout season in 2025.
According to Tim Twentyman of Lions.com, Bates didn't miss a field goal during Sunday's practice and had an overall great day.
"Bates looked great Sunday knocking all six of his attempts in team periods right through the center of the uprights from 34, 38, 39, 44, 44, and 49 yards," Twentyman wrote.
After making a name for himself during the 2024 UFL spring season, Bates signed with the Lions and won the starting kicker job in training camp for the 2024 NFL season.
The 26-year-old proved to be a fantastic signing by Detroit, as he nailed 26 of 29 field goals last year and went six of eight from 50-plus yards. Bates also led the league in extra points made (64) and nailed three game-winning field goals.
If Bates can post another efficient season in 2025, the Texas State product should establish himself as one of the best kickers in the game and also earn a payday from the Lions. Bates is set to be an Exclusive Rights Free Agent after the season, but should be rewarded with a massive raise.
Detroit will continue the preseason on Friday, as they will head to Mercedes-Benz Stadium to square off against the Atlanta Falcons. The Lions will conclude the preseason with games against the Miami Dolphins and Houston Texans before heading to Lambeau Field for a highly-anticipated Week 1 matchup with the Green Bay Packers.
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Category: Football
