David Bote Jersey The time has finally come: UFL star and Michigan Panthers kicker Jake Bates can finally visit with NFL teams, and the are reportedly among those that are interested in the standout kicker.According to , the Lions are one of at least four teams who have requested to host Bates on a free-agent visit, along with the Green Bay Packers, Washington Commanders and Baltimore Ravens.Bates exploded in popularity during the 2024 UFL season after crushing several long field goals, including a whopping three from 60-plus and a total of seven from 50-plus when you include the playoffs. As a result of his impre sive showing, Bates immediately caught the eye of NFL teams. have requested to host all-conference kicker Jake Bates for visits, per a league source. It's a competitive situation for strong-legged kicker, a former preseason roster member and graduate Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) Ultimately, Bates finished the regular season 17-of-22 but mi sed three of his last five field goals over the final three contests. He then went 4-of-6 in the Panthers' playoff lo s to the Birmingham Stallions this past weekend while also booting a kickoff out of bounds that the Stallions turned into points.Also in that game, Bates appeared to suffer a foot injury on a block field goal. It isn't clear if that will hinder his ability to work out for teams, so that's something to keep an eye on.The Lions currently have a kicker competition between veteran Michael Badgley and undrafted free agent James Turner, and the latter has been giving the former a run for his money. It certainly wouldn't hurt to add Bates to the competition. Kyle Ryan Jersey