Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell is one of the NFL coaches who benefited from signing former UFL players. The Lions’ field goal kicker, Jake Bates, was a rookie breakout sensation for the Michigan Panthers in 2024. Following the UFL’s inaugural season, Bates was signed by Detroit.
Proving to be one of the best kickers in the league, Bates posted a 95.5% accuracy rate, converting 26 of 29 field goals (longest of 58 yards) and 64 of 67 extra points. Named a Pro Bowl alternate last season, Bates is now in his second year with Detroit.
After the success the team found with Bates, Campbell sees the value of using the UFL as a minor league farm system for budding NFL-caliber talent.
Nick Whiteside, St. Louis Battlehawks Cornerback
Earlier this week, the Lions signed former St. Louis Battlehawks cornerback and Michigan native Nick Whiteside. The Saginaw Valley State alum recorded 20 tackles, defended four pass breakups, and one forced fumble for St. Louis this past season.
Twice named a Division II All-American, Whiteside was also recognized as the GLIAC Defensive Back of the Year in 2021. After suffering an Achilles injury in late 2021, a fully recovered Whiteside signed as a UDFA with the Washington Commanders in 2023.
Although he spent most of that season on the Commanders’ practice squad, he recorded snaps on both defense and special teams. Released by Washington in August of 2024, Whiteside made his debut this year with the UFL Battlehawks.
As training camp injuries continue to open up roster spots, the Lions released Stantley Thomas-Oliver and signed Whiteside. He faces stiff competition from a stacked Lions secondary that features budding star Terrion Arnold and newly acquired veteran D.J. Reed, with Amik Robertson and Ennis Rakestraw as their talented backups. But Whiteside could still make the 53-man roster.
Both Rakestraw (chest contusion) and Robertson (unspecified) have missed practice. Khalil Dorsey is currently on the PUP list, making room for Whiteside to get some reps and make an impact. On Monday, Whiteside did exactly that, picking off Lions’ backup quarterback Hendon Hooker in the red zone.
In addition to recent free agent acquisitions Avonte Maddox and Rock Ya-Sin, the Lions signed DiCaprio Bootle at the opening of camp. Hopefully, Whiteside will get an opportunity on Thursday night to play the Los Angeles Chargers in the Hall of Fame game and improve his chances of making the 53-man roster.
Jacob Saylors, St. Louis Battlehawks Running Back
One of Whiteside’s St. Louis teammates was just signed by the Detroit Lions, two-time All-UFL running back, Jacob Saylors. After leading the league in 2024 as the UFL’s top running back, Saylors is no stranger to the NFL. He was signed to the New York Giants immediately following the end of the UFL season, and then later signed by the Cleveland Browns. One of the UFL’s most prolific scoring machines, Saylors led the league in non-quarterback scoring with 54 points in 2024.
Appearing in nine games for the Battlehawks this season, Saylors once again was one of the league’s best running backs with 113 rushes for 499 yards and five touchdowns. Adding 22 receptions for 245 yards, Saylors was second only to former All-UFL wide receiver Hakeem Butler on the team.
Following the release of UDFA tight end Luke Deal, Saylors made the Lions roster, joining one of the NFL’s most talented running back duos, David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. Known throughout the NFL as “Sonic and Knuckles”, the two combined last year for over 2,100 yards with 28 touchdowns. It’s highly unlikely that either star will play Thursday night; therefore, we may get a chance to see Saylors in action for the Lions.
One final element that could help support both men in their quest to make the 53-man roster in Detroit is that during the offseason, Campbell hired former Battlehawks offensive coordinator Bruce Gradowski as a member of his coaching staff. Gradowski played a big role in the Battlehawks’ successful 2024 offense and undoubtedly played. role in the development of Saylors. Now, Gradowski has the opportunity to help both men reach the next level in their careers and make the Lions’ 53-man roster.
1 Comment
by Gary Winter
Love seeing Jacon Saylors get a shot with the Detroit Lions! If he makes it, we’re sure going to miss him in St. Louis though.
Dan Campbell seems to have a good grasp on the UFL, why it exists and how to take advantage of it. It’s sort of like a supplemental draft. Additional available players with tons of film to add to your roster. There isn’t much downside.