In the NFL, winning on the margins is what separates good teams from being elite.
While all the attention rightfully focuses on a team’s offense and defense, special teams can often serve as the difference between winning and losing games.
Last season, there were several games that cost teams a win after a kicker missed a pivotal field goal or extra point.
Having a good kicker is an underrated advantage for a team as they can put points on the board to apply pressure on opposing teams to keep pace.
The 2024 NFL Draft featured some high-quality prospects like Will Reichard and Joshua Karty who got drafted by the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams, respectively.
However, one name to look out for with training camp approaching is UFL kicker Jake Bates who kicked through another 60-yard field goal via Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team.
“Michigan Panthers K Jake Bates just drilled another 60-yard FG. He has now made FGs from 64, 62, 60, 55 and 52 so far in the UFL. Safe to assume he’ll be with an NFL team eventually,” Meirov tweeted.
Michigan Panthers K Jake Bates just drilled another 60-yard FG.
He has now made FGs from 64, 62, 60, 55 and 52 so far in the UFL.
Safe to assume he’ll be with an NFL team eventually.pic.twitter.com/mRy57EnK02
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 5, 2024
Bates has been drawing national attention the past month for his kicking exploits and after drilling another long field goal it feels like a matter of time until he gets a call from an NFL team to try out.
Bates has great leg strength and accuracy and looks like a legitimate special teams weapon that could help numerous teams next season.
If he has another strong showing kicking, at least a few teams will be calling to secure his services.
