If there was ever any question that the UFL is a legitimate pathway to a career in the NFL, the sight of former spring football star Jake Bates, nailing a 52-yard field goal in the Detroit Lions’ 26-23 victory over the Houston Texans should erase those doubts.
Jake Bates -Detroit Lions Kicker
On Sunday night, Bates scored the walk-off field goal in a shocking 16-point comeback win for the Lions. Moments earlier, he tied the game with a blistering 58-yard field goal that now ranks as the third-longest field goal in Lions franchise history.
The former Michigan Panthers kicker has been perfect on the season nailing 14 out of 14 field goals for the Lions. In addition, he has converted 32 of 33 extra points for the team.
Brandon Aubrey-Dallas Cowboys Kicker
With Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott heading towards season-ending hamstring surgery and his backup Cooper Rush struggling offensively, the Cowboys’ UFL players are among the team’s few bright spots. Once again Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey was responsible for providing the only points the team scored in their 34-6 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Aubrey kicked a 46-yard field goal and a second kick from 23 yards. Aubrey continues to dominate the ranks of the NFL kickers after making 22 of 24 field goal attempts and providing all 17 extra points.
KaVontae Turpin-Dallas Cowboys Wide Receiver and Return Specialist
With Dallas continuing to struggle offensively, KaVontae Turpin has been a terrific weapon as a kick return specialist. On Sunday, Turpin returned a 48-yard kickoff against the Eagles. Turpin’s return helped the Cowboys get on the board with Aubrey’s 46-yard field goal.
Jalen Dalton-Dallas Cowboys Defensive Tackle
The former San Antonio Brahmas DT Jalen Dalton remained on the practice squad for the Cowboys this week.
Rex Sunahara-Cleveland Browns Long Snapper
The Cleveland Browns elevated former San Antonio Brahmas long snapper Rex Sunahara in October to their active roster. He was activated following an injury to snapper Charley Hughlett who is currently on injured reserve. Sunahara has appeared in four games for the Browns this season, most recently playing in their 27-10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in week 9.
The Browns were on their bye week in week 10.
Deon Cain-Buffalo Bills Wide Receiver
Deon Cain, the former Birmingham Stallions and current Buffalo Bills receiver remained on the practice squad in the Bills 30-20 win over the Indianapolis Colts.
Jalen Redmond-Minnesota Vikings Defensive End
Jalen Redmond, the former D.C. Defenders star, was caught up in the NFL’s 53-man roster merry-go-round. Temporarily waived by the Vikings to make room for the return of T.J. Hockenson, Redmond was re-signed to the Vikings’ active roster on November 6th. He has appeared in five games for the Vikings and recorded three tackles and one sack.
Kohl Levao -New York Jets Offensive Lineman
Former San Antonio Brahmas OL Kohl Levao remained on the New York Jets practice squad again this week.
Adrian Martinez -New York Jets Quarterback
After a bruising 31-6 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, the New York Jets continue their free fall into obscurity. Following another uninspiring, lackluster performance from quarterback Aaron Rodgers, one can only hope that one of the UFL’s brightest stars, Adrian Martinez will be elevated from the practice squad sometime this season and given a chance to shine for Jets fans.
Keep checking here for weekly updates as additional UFL player opportunities open up.
