As the official NFL free agency period approaches on March 11, the Detroit Lions are already making key personnel moves, including a high-profile trade involving running back David Montgomery. Amidst the attention on Montgomery’s trade, the future of the Lions’ reliable kicker, Jake Bates, has become clearer. Bates, known for clutch performances, remains a focal point as the team prepares for the 2026 season.
Throughout his tenure with Detroit, Bates has delivered critical game-winning kicks. A notable moment came last November in a close contest against the Houston Texans, where his successful kicks helped secure a 26-23 victory. Reflecting on that game, Bates told NBC,
“I put them a little too close to the post for comfort, but luckily they went in,”
adding,
“just happy to do my job today.”
Before joining the NFL, Bates played for the Michigan Panthers after starting his career selling bricks in Texas. His journey caught the attention of Lions head coach Dan Campbell. Beyond football, Bates is open about his faith, often sharing its importance in his life and career.
Speaking to Fox News, Bates expressed,
“I think it just shows how good the Lord is,”
and elaborated,
“He’s so faithful. My story is, if anything, I just hope people can see Jesus through my story. I mean that’s what I think I’m here to do. Not make or miss or be a good kicker or bad kicker but spread the love of Jesus.”
Recent Lions Recognition Highlights Bates and Team Morale
On March 3, the Detroit Lions used their social media platforms to celebrate Jake Bates’ birthday, also recognizing defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike, whose birthday falls on the same day. This public acknowledgment reflects the team’s appreciation for key players as they head into the offseason.
According to contract data from Spotrac, Bates’ two-year, $1.98 million deal has officially expired, making him an exclusive rights free agent as of March 2026. This means the Lions hold the sole rights to retain him, as Bates cannot negotiate with other teams if Detroit offers him a league-minimum one-year contract. This arrangement secures the Lions’ option to keep a kicker who has consistently delivered in high-pressure moments.
David Montgomery Trade Signals Detroit’s Strategic Shift
On March 2, NFL insider Tom Pelissero confirmed the Detroit Lions traded longtime running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans, receiving offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, as well as fourth- and seventh-round draft picks in return. Montgomery had been with Detroit for three seasons, accumulating 2,500 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns, serving as a dependable figure on and off the field.
However, Montgomery’s on-field production declined over the past two seasons, partly due to the emergence of Jahmyr Gibbs as the team’s feature back. The trade also transfers the remaining two years of Montgomery’s contract to Houston, lessening Detroit’s salary obligations moving forward.
During the recent NFL Combine, Lions general manager Brad Holmes spoke about Montgomery’s departure. Holmes shared with Pro Football Talk,
“We love David,”
and added,
“He’s a great player. We’d love to have him. Kind of want to put last year in the rear view and just move forward. But, obviously, a player has to want to be in a certain place as well. So, those conversations are still fluid, and we’re just trying to see how it goes.”
Implications for the Lions Heading into the 2026 Season
The trade of a key veteran like Montgomery underscores Detroit’s intent to retool and develop emerging talent, while maintaining foundational players such as Jake Bates. Bates’ exclusive rights status gives the Lions flexibility to secure their dependable kicker without competition from other teams, which is crucial as roster changes take shape during the offseason.
With the uncertainty surrounding some positions and fresh draft capital obtained from the Houston trade, Detroit is positioned to make strategic decisions in free agency. How the Lions manage Bates’ contract and integrate new players like Juice Scruggs will be essential to their ambitions for the upcoming season. For Bates, continuing his role as a clutch performer and vocal team member keeps him central to Detroit’s plans in 2026 and beyond.
Damn, Dmo told you that ? https://t.co/ttg4DY6H99
— David Montgomery (@MontgomerDavid) March 1, 2026
