UFL K Jake Bates continues to make case for Vikings to sign him

Tyler Forness

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UFL K Jake Bates continues to make case for Vikings to sign him image

The Minnesota Vikings need to find stability at the kicker position and Jake Bates of the UFL's Michigan Panthers could be that guy. 

Despite not having attempted a single field goal in college, Bates has been lights out for the Panthers this season. In the opener, Bates kicked and made a game-winning 64-yard field goal twice to bring the Panthers to 1-0 in the UFL season. He has also made two other 60+ yard field goals along with numerous other 50+ yard field goals.

On Sunday against the D.C. Defenders, Bates kicked another 50+ yard field goal with this one coming from 51 yards out.

Bates also showed his versatility with a 22-yard field goal and a 40-yard field goal to put the Panthers up 22-6. They beat the Defenders by a score of 22-9 and Bates continues to be the star of the spring league having made 12-14 field goals.

Tyler Forness

Tyler Forness Photo

Tyler Forness was previously the managing editor of USA Today's Vikings Wire. His work has been featured on Sports Illustrated, USA Today, Voices of Wrestling, SB Nation, and NBC Sports Edge among others. He is an avid wrestling fan, craft beer connoisseur, and loves the run-n-shoot offense. You can find him on Twitter/X @TheRealForno.