The Detroit Lions wrapped up their preseason with a concerning performance from kicker Jake Bates, who missed two of three extra point attempts in Saturday's finale. Despite the shaky outing, head coach Dan Campbell remains steadfast in his support for Bates, dismissing any notion of panic as the regular season approaches.
Campbell's Stance: 'He'll Be Fine'
Speaking to reporters after the game, Campbell was unequivocal: 'No, I'm not worried about Bates. He just pushed them a little bit. He'll be fine. He'll be fine.' The coach's confidence is notable, especially given that Bates is the only kicker on the roster, making his job secure heading into the season. But is Campbell's trust misplaced, or is this a classic case of a coach protecting his player?
Bates, who emerged as a breakout star in 2024 after being signed from the United Football League, was one of the NFL's most reliable kickers that season. However, his 2025 campaign showed signs of regression, and this preseason has done little to quell concerns. In addition to the extra point misses, Bates also missed a field goal in the previous week's game, raising questions about his consistency.
A Closer Look at the Numbers
While Campbell's public confidence is reassuring, the underlying statistics tell a more nuanced story. Bates' field goal percentage dipped from an elite 94% in 2024 to a respectable but less dominant 86% in 2025. Extra point attempts, often taken for granted, have become a point of emphasis in the NFL, and Bates' misses in high-pressure situations could be a red flag.
Yet, Campbell's history suggests he values mental toughness and resilience over isolated mistakes. 'He's our guy. We've seen what he can do,' Campbell added, hinting that the coaching staff is focusing on the long-term picture rather than preseason jitters.
What This Means for the Lions' Season
As the Lions prepare for their regular-season opener, the kicking game remains a focal point. With a potent offense led by quarterback Jared Goff and a playoff-caliber roster, Detroit cannot afford to leave points on the field. The margin for error in the NFC North is razor-thin, and a missed extra point could be the difference between a win and a loss in a tightly contested division.
According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Lions' front office has explored veteran kicker options in the past, but Campbell's loyalty to Bates suggests they are committed to giving him every opportunity to succeed. The question is whether Bates can channel his 2024 form or if the pressure of expectations will continue to weigh on him.
Reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, this situation bears watching as the season unfolds. For now, Campbell's message is clear: trust in Bates, and let the results speak for themselves. As the old adage goes, 'You're only as good as your last kick,' and Bates will have plenty of chances to prove his coach right.
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