According to sources, the Green Bay Packers are considering adding kicker Jake Bates to their team. Bates previously spent time with the Houston Texans in 2023 and had a successful season with the Michigan Panthers in the UFL. He made 17 out of 22 field goals during the regular season, with an impressive 11 out of 12 from 20 to 49 yards and six out of ten on kicks over 50 yards, including a game-winning 64-yard kick against St. Louis.
During the postseason, Bates went four for six on kicks, bringing his total to 21 out of 28 for the season. He was recognized as an All-UFL kicker for his performance in 2024. With the Packers currently evaluating their kicking options, Bates could potentially join the competition with Anders Carlson, Greg Joseph, and Jack Podlesny if a visit materializes. It’s possible that one of the kickers currently on the roster could be released to make room for Bates.
In addition to the Packers, multiple other NFL franchises have expressed interest in Bates, including the Detroit Lions, Washington Commanders, and Baltimore Ravens. During his college career at Texas State and Arkansas, Bates was primarily a kickoff specialist due to his background in soccer. As teams continue to evaluate their kicking situations
