The United Football League kicked off its inaugural season with a thrilling 64-yard field goal by Jake Bates, catching the attention of NFL teams. Bates, a former soccer player turned kicker, made the kick in the Panthers' win over the Battlehawks. Bates' journey from college soccer to the UFL could lead to an NFL opportunity if he continues to impress with his field goal accuracy.
Only two field goals of 64 yards or longer have been made in NFL history, highlighting the rarity and difficulty of Bates' feat. The kick came at Ford Field in Detroit, mirroring a similar record-setting kick by Justin Tucker. As Bates gains recognition for his impressive kick, the Lions and other NFL teams have expressed interest in adding him to their roster.