After the Detroit Lions broke from OTAs for summer break, they signed former Michigan Panthers kicker Jake Bates, a move that had many Lions fans excited. Because the signing happened after all those OTA practices, we haven’t had a chance to formally talk to him in a media scrum, but the new Lions kicker joined the Lone Wolves podcast this week to give us insight into his NFL journey.
After Bates opened the UFL season by nailing a 64-yard, game-winning field goal, he was immediately thrust into the spotlight. NFL teams we’re reportedly trying to tamper with league rules to get a hold of Bates, and when he was finally free to sign with teams, the Lions were one of a few that were scrambling to add him.