Jake Bates’ rise from an unheralded signing to turning into a vital piece of an NFL roster speaks to the ability of seizing alternatives once they come up.
Earlier than Bates was nailing kicks for the Detroit Lions, he was making his mark within the United Soccer League with the Michigan Panthers.
His potential to attach on clutch kicks from lengthy distances caught the eye of scouts and set the stage for his NFL breakthrough.
Now, the Panthers are getting ready to honor their former kicker in a particular approach that celebrates his unbelievable journey.
“Jake Bates bobblehead day. The Michigan Panthers are giving them to the primary 2,000 followers on the recreation on Might 31,” Brad Galli of WXYZ Detroit wrote on X.
Jake Bates bobblehead day 👟
The Michigan Panthers are giving them to the primary 2,000 followers on the recreation on Might 31 pic.twitter.com/BphGUuRucM
— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) Might 22, 2025
Reviews counsel Bates may even attend the upcoming UFL recreation, which might be an ideal full-circle second given his dominance within the league throughout its 2024 season.
He related on 17 of twenty-two discipline purpose makes an attempt, together with an ideal 7-for-7 efficiency from 40-49 yards and 6 profitable kicks from past 50 yards.
The Lions, having watched Brandon Aubrey’s success after his USFL stint, acknowledged the worth in various expertise.
They secured Bates with a two-year contract, benefiting from the truth that he was already accustomed to Ford Discipline via his time with the Panthers.
This bobblehead giveaway serves as a becoming tribute from the UFL group, acknowledging how Bates elevated the franchise throughout his time there.
It immediately opened the door to his NFL alternative, the place he continued his dependable work by making 26 of 29 discipline targets and 64 of 67 further level makes an attempt for the Lions final season.
