Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates set a franchise scoring record in the Lions’ 40-34 win against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday night. Bates surpassed Jason Hanson’s previous mark of 134 points, reaching 135 points with one regular season game remaining.
The former Michigan Panthers kicker connected on field goals from 57 and 42 yards in the victory. His performance helped Detroit overcome a 21-13 halftime deficit. Bates ranks fifth in NFL scoring this season, converting 89.3% of his field goal attempts with a season-long of 58 yards. Through 16 games, he has missed three field goals and three extra points.
Bates established himself in the UFL with the Michigan Panthers before signing with Detroit. He made headlines by converting a 64-yard field goal in the Panthers’ opening weekend victory over the St. Louis Battlehawks. His 17 field goals ranked second in the UFL, earning him All-UFL team recognition.
The Arkansas product went undrafted before emerging as the Lions’ kicker in 2024. His success continues to showcase the UFL’s ability to develop NFL talent as Detroit pursues the top playoff seed.
