Lions Ensure Kicker Jake Bates Remains In Detroit

As expected, the Detroit Lions are issuing an exclusive free rights tender to kicker Jake Bates, securing his immediate future with Detroit.

Lions Ensure Kicker Jake Bates Remains In Detroit

The ERFA comes just as the Dallas Cowboys are expected to reset the NFL kicker market with three-time Pro Bowl star, Brandon Aubrey.

Bates Outstanding Rookie Year 

A fan favorite in Detroit, Bates’ sideline stretches have their own popular meme. The 27-year-old kicker has been with Detroit for the last two seasons after bursting onto the UFL scene. Although Bates played soccer in college, the UDFA from Arkansas hadn’t kicked a field goal since high school. In his first game at Ford Field with the Michigan Panthers, Bates drilled a 64-yard field goal between the uprights, marking (what was then) the second-longest kick in professional football history.

Making the kick even more spectacular was the fact that Bates was forced to re-kick an earlier 64-yard conversion negated due to a penalty. His calm, cool demeanor and ability to perform under pressure made Bates an immediate media sensation. He became the biggest star to emerge from the UFL’s inaugural season.

Following the conclusion of the UFL season, Bates’ signing with Detroit was a natural move. Since then, he’s distinguished himself as one of the better kickers in the NFL. As a rookie, Bates converted 26/29 field goals (89.7%) with a 58-yarder as his longest kick and 64/67 extra points (95.5%). He was named a Pro Bowl alternate.

Bates’ Sophomore Struggle 

In 2025, Bates’ field goal production dipped slightly. He converted 27/34 kicks and 54/56 extra points. However, Bates came through in the clutch when his team needed him the most. In a Week 12 game against the New York Giants, with 33 seconds left in regulation, Bates drilled a 59-yard field goal. The kick tied the score at 27 and sent the game into overtime. The Lions won by a score of 34-27. It was Bates’ longest kick to date, tying a Detroit Franchise record. As one of four 50-plus-yard field goals last season, the kick brought his career total to nine.

Despite Bates experiencing a few ups and downs last season, Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp isn’t worrying. Pointing out that he’s one of the most talented kickers he’s ever coached, Fipp defends his young kicker. “I have a lot of confidence in him. I totally believed in knowing he’s a great player.” He continues, “I will not waver. Not one bit. He’s got to continue to grow and develop.” 

What the ERFA Tender Means for Detroit

What does the ERFA contract mean for the Lions? It’s a solid move for Detroit and one that guarantees Bates is their kicker for at least the next two years. With the Lions holding his exclusive rights, Bates is prohibited from negotiating with any other NFL team. In exchange, he receives a one-year contract worth the league minimum of $1,075 million.

Assuming Bates continues to perform well for the Lions in 2026, he becomes a restricted free agent in 2027. While he can negotiate with another NFL team, the Lions retain the “right of first refusal,” meaning they can match the offer, or if Bates departs, the Lions receive draft compensation from the signing team.

Final Thoughts 

Aubrey’s next contract is expected to exceed the current contract of the NFL’s highest-paid kicker in the NFL, Kansas City Chiefs’ Harrison Butker. In 2024, Butker signed a four-year extension worth approximately $6.4 million annually. 

According to Fipp, Bates has kicked multiple 60-yard kicks in practice. With 60-yard kicks becoming the new standard in the NFL, having a kicker who can drill long-distance kicks and perform under immense pressure is a necessity for a playoff-bound team.  

Fortunately for Detroit, the team has a hard-working young kicker who continues to fine-tune his skills. Just as Bates delivered the game-winning kick in Week 18 against the Chicago Bears, if the opportunity arises when the Lions need a 60-yard kick,  he has the leg strength and calm demeanor to deliver.