In the inaugural season of the United Football League (UFL), kicker Jake Bates stole the spotlight with a thrilling 64-yard field goal that secured an 18-16 victory for his team, the Michigan Panthers, against the St. Louis Battlehawks. This remarkable feat has attracted the attention of multiple NFL teams, including the Detroit Lions, who have already expressed interest in signing Bates.

If Bates were to sign with an NFL team, it would likely happen after he completes the UFL season with the Panthers, as per the typical structure of spring league contracts. The UFL regular season is scheduled to run until June 2, providing Bates with an opportunity to exhibit his talents before potential NFL offers arise.

Bates' incredible kick will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most improbable field goals in football history. It was particularly remarkable considering that it was his first field goal attempt since high school. Even NFL kickers struggle to achieve such distances, as there have only been two successful field goals of 64 yards or more in the entire history of the league.

The dramatic moment unfolded after the Battlehawks took a late 16-15 lead with a touchdown, leaving just 49 seconds on the clock. Following a strong kickoff return by Michigan's Marcus Simms to their own 35-yard line, the Panthers' offense had limited success, with quarterback E.J. Perry completing just 2 of 7 passes for 19 yards. With eight seconds remaining on a fourth-and-6 situation at the Battlehawks' 46-yard line, Panthers coach Mike Nolan opted to send Bates for the game-winning field goal, a gamble that paid off magnificently.

It is worth noting that Bates' journey to this historic kick has been far from conventional. His collegiate career began as a soccer player at Central Arkansas before transferring to Texas State, where he specialized in kickoffs. After two seasons with the Bobcats, Bates transferred to Arkansas, where he continued his role as a kickoff specialist for the Razorbacks. Consequently, he never had the opportunity to attempt a field goal in college.

In 2023, Bates participated in the Houston Texans' training camp but was limited to just one preseason game before losing the kicking job to Ka'imi Fairbairn. However, the UFL provided Bates with the platform to showcase his talent, resulting in this iconic moment.

Adding to the extraordinary nature of Bates' kick is the fact that he actually made it twice. His first attempt was on target, but it was nullified since the Battlehawks had called a timeout before the snap. This remarkable sequence exemplifies Bates' composure and skill under pressure.

Furthermore, it is intriguing to note that both of the previously successful field goals of 64 yards or more in NFL history occurred in different circumstances. Justin Tucker accomplished the feat in 2021 at Ford Field, where Bates achieved his remarkable kick. Tucker's record-breaking kick, which hit the crossbar before going in, helped the Baltimore Ravens secure victory against the Lions. Matt Prater, on the other hand, achieved his 64-yard field goal while playing for the Denver Broncos in 2013.

While the UFL is still in its early stages, Bates' incredible achievement will likely secure his place in league history. However, the real test for him lies in proving his consistency when it comes to making big field goals, a factor that will play a significant role in his potential signing with an NFL team in 2024.

As the story of Jake Bates' remarkable 64-yard field goal continues to captivate the football world, it is clear that this shining moment has opened doors for him in the NFL.