By Moses Joshua 
From Brick Salesman to Franchise Record-Breaker — Jake Bates Has Earned His Place in Detroit’s Future
A Kicker Rewriting the Lions’ History Books
When Jake Bates lined up for a 58-yard field goal in Week 7, few could have guessed they were about to witness history. With one clean strike, the Detroit Lions kicker not only split the uprights but etched his name in franchise lore — becoming the first player in team history to make two field goals of 58-plus yards in a single season.
That kick was more than just three points on the board. It was a statement — a declaration that Bates has become one of the NFL’s most reliable and explosive specialists, and that his rise from the UFL to Ford Field is no fluke.
From Spring Football to NFL Stardom
Before his breakout with Detroit, Bates was fighting to keep his football dream alive. He had been working as a brick salesman after a stint with the Michigan Panthers of the UFL, where he made headlines with a 64-yard field goal — one of the longest in spring football history.
That booming leg caught the attention of Lions general manager Brad Holmes, who signed Bates to a two-year, $1.98 million deal in 2024. Since then, Bates has rewarded that faith with consistency and power.
He’s converted 34 of 40 field goals and 91 of 94 extra-point attempts since joining Detroit. This season alone, he’s hit 8 of 11 field goals and all 27 extra points, a model of steadiness for a team with championship ambitions.
“If it weren’t for Brandon Aubrey,” one league insider noted, “Bates could be the one resetting the kicker market right now.”
Stability After Years of Uncertainty
Since the departure of Matt Prater in 2020, the Lions have struggled to find long-term stability at kicker. From Riley Patterson to Austin Seibert and several others in between, the position became a revolving door.
That’s why Bates’ emergence is so significant — and why Holmes’ upcoming decision should be an easy one. The 27-year-old has not only delivered results but also brought back the confidence Detroit once had with legends like Jason Hanson, who manned the role for two decades.
With 10 games left in the season, Bates has more opportunities to strengthen his case for a lucrative extension — one that could easily reach $3 million per year.
The Easy Decision for Detroit’s Front Office
Brad Holmes has proven adept at building one of the most balanced rosters in the NFL, but even among a star-studded lineup, Bates’ story stands out. His combination of accuracy, power, and poise has turned a once-shaky position into a source of strength.
Re-signing Bates isn’t just a smart football move — it’s a statement of loyalty to a player who clawed his way back into the league and made himself indispensable.
For a kicker who once wondered if he’d ever get another shot, Jake Bates has now become a name synonymous with reliability, resilience, and record-breaking excellence in Detroit.
And for Brad Holmes? The decision couldn’t be any clearer.