50 Facts About Jake Bates

Early Life and High School Achievements

Jake Bates, a name now synonymous with professional football kicking, began his journey in Tomball, Texas. His early life and high school years laid the foundation for his future success.

1. Born on March 3, 1999, in Tomball, Texas, Jake Bates grew up with a passion for sports.
2. At Tomball High School, he excelled in both football and soccer, earning All-District First Team honors.
3. Bates was named District 20-5A Offensive MVP, showcasing his talent on the field.

College Soccer and Transition to Football

Bates initially pursued soccer in college, but his path took a turn when he decided to focus on football. This transition was pivotal in shaping his career.

4. He played soccer for two seasons at Central Arkansas, starting 29 of 36 games.
5. Bates earned recognition on the collegesoccernews.com National Team of the Week.
6. He was also named topdrawersoccer.com National Player of the Week.
7. Transferring to Texas State, Bates shifted his focus to football, playing in 12 games.
8. He took on kickoff duties, averaging 62.76 yards per kickoff.
9. Bates recorded 35 touchbacks on 53 kickoffs, with standout performances against Baylor and Florida International.

Success at Arkansas and College Football Career

Bates's transfer to Arkansas marked a significant chapter in his college football career, earning him accolades and setting records.

10. In 2022, Bates transferred to the University of Arkansas, where he earned First-Team All-SEC honors as a kickoff specialist.
11. He led the SEC and finished fourth nationally with an average of 64.47 yards per kickoff.
12. Bates achieved an SEC-best and third nationally with 64 touchbacks.
13. Leading all of FBS in touchback percentage, 64 of his 75 kickoffs resulted in a touchback, for a percentage of 85.3.
14. Bates attempted and recovered an onside kick against Alabama on October 1, 2022.
15. Over three seasons in college football, he played two seasons at Texas State and one at Arkansas.

Professional Football Journey

After college, Bates's professional journey began with challenges, but his determination led him to success in both the NFL and UFL.

16. Going undrafted in the 2023 NFL draft, Bates signed with the Houston Texans on July 31, 2023.
17. He was released by the Texans on August 12, 2023.
18. Bates signed with the Michigan Panthers of the UFL on December 25, 2023.
19. He made a game-winning 64-yard field goal in Week 1 of the UFL season.
20. This 64-yard field goal against the St. Louis Battlehawks was the longest in UFL history.
21. Bates made three field goals of at least 60 yards with the Michigan Panthers.
22. He earned a spot on the 2024 All-UFL team.
23. His contract with the Michigan Panthers was terminated on June 17, 2024, to sign with an NFL team.

Detroit Lions and NFL Success

Bates's transition to the NFL with the Detroit Lions marked a new chapter in his career, where he continued to impress with his kicking skills.

24. On June 18, 2024, Bates signed a two-year contract with the Detroit Lions.
25. He became one of only two UFL players to make a National Football League 53-man roster.
26. Bates competed with Michael Badgley for the Lions' kicking job.
27. He took over after Badgley suffered a season-ending injury on July 25, 2024.
28. During the Lions' preseason, Bates participated in all three matchups.
29. He performed well, missing only one of two field goal attempts.
30. As of the start of the regular season, Bates made all 10 of his field goal attempts.
31. He converted 20 of 21 extra point tries, maintaining a near-perfect record.

Memorable Moments and Achievements

Bates's career is marked by memorable moments and significant achievements that highlight his growth and skill as a professional kicker.

32. On October 20, 2024, Bates made a 44-yard field goal with 15 seconds remaining to secure a 31-29 victory over the Minnesota Vikings.
33. The game against the Vikings was played in front of over 66,000 fans at US Bank Stadium.
34. Bates described it as the loudest environment he has ever kicked in.
35. Despite the noise, he maintained his composure and successfully split the uprights.
36. Bates's game-winning kick against the Vikings marked a significant milestone in his career.
37. As of the start of the regular season, Bates holds a perfect record on field goal attempts, making all 10 attempts.
38. He has also converted 20 of 21 extra point tries, solidifying his role as the Lions' primary kicker.

Career Statistics and Physical Attributes

Bates's career statistics and physical attributes contribute to his success as a professional kicker, showcasing his talent and dedication.

39. In the 2024 UFL season, Bates made 17 of 22 field goal attempts, with a long of 64 yards and a percentage of 77.2%.
40. In the UFL postseason, Bates made 4 of 6 field goal attempts, with a long of 53 yards and a percentage of 66.7%.
41. As of the start of the regular season, Bates has made 5 of 5 field goal attempts, with a long of 35 yards and a percentage of 100%.
42. In the NFL, Bates has converted 3 of 3 extra point attempts, maintaining a perfect record.
43. Standing at 6 feet 0.5 inches tall and weighing 204 pounds, Bates possesses the physical attributes necessary for a successful kicker.
44. His arm length is 30 inches, and his hand span is 8.875 inches.

Personal Reflections and Future Prospects

Bates's journey is not just about statistics and achievements; it's also about personal growth, motivation, and the promise of a bright future.

45. Bates was honored as Southeastern Kicker of the Year in 2022 during his sole season at Arkansas.
46. After being released from the Houston Texans, Bates found new life in the UFL and eventually the NFL.
47. Despite setbacks, he remained motivated, focusing on maintaining a positive mindset and staying calm under pressure.
48. The Detroit Lions' head coach, Dan Campbell, has expressed confidence in Bates, noting his ability to perform under pressure.
49. Bates's leadership on the field has been evident, as he has consistently performed under pressure and contributed to the team's success.
50. With his current performance and dedication, Bates has a promising future in the NFL, potentially becoming one of the top kickers in the league.

Jake Bates: A Kicking Sensation

Jake Bates's journey from college soccer to becoming a standout kicker in professional football is nothing short of inspiring. His transition from the soccer field to the gridiron highlights his adaptability and determination. Bates's achievements, like his record-breaking 64-yard field goal in the UFL, showcase his incredible talent and dedication to his craft. His ability to perform under pressure, as seen in his game-winning kick against the Vikings, underscores his mental toughness and composure. Bates's story is a testament to perseverance, proving that setbacks can be stepping stones to success. As he continues to make waves with the Detroit Lions, his future in the NFL looks bright. Fans and teammates alike admire his skill and commitment, making him a key player to watch. Jake Bates's rise in professional football serves as a reminder that hard work and resilience can lead to remarkable achievements.