ARLINGTON, TX – November 24, 2025 – Four former kickers from the United Football League (UFL) showcased their talents with impressive performances in Week 12 of the NFL season, significantly contributing to their teams’ victories. Brandon Aubrey, Jake Bates, Andre Szmyt, and Harrison Mevis played pivotal roles for their respective teams, demonstrating the depth of talent emerging from spring football leagues.
Brandon Aubrey, a former Birmingham Stallion, was instrumental in the Dallas Cowboys’ thrilling come-from-behind victory against the defending Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles. Trailing 21–0 late in the first half, the Cowboys rallied to secure a dramatic 24–21 victory with Aubrey kicking a clutch 42-yard field goal as time expired. This remarkable finish not only showcased Aubrey’s strong leg but also highlighted his ability to perform under pressure, keeping Dallas in contention for a division title. He is set to kick again on Thanksgiving against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Jake Bates, who previously played for the Michigan Panthers, also made headlines in a high-stakes matchup between the New York Giants and Detroit Lions. With the Lions down by ten points and just under 11 minutes remaining, Bates drilled a career-long 59-yard field goal as time expired to tie the game, igniting the crowd at Ford Field. This was no ordinary feat for Bates, who has become known for his clutch kicks, finishing the day with two successful field goals and four extra points, aiding the Lions’ victory in overtime. He is preparing for another tough matchup against the Green Bay Packers this Thanksgiving.
Meanwhile, Andre Szmyt continued to impress with the Cleveland Browns, marking a landmark victory for the team with a debuting quarterback, Shedeur Sanders. The former Battlehawk was perfect on extra points and made a remarkable 53-yard field goal, showcasing his evolving skills in the NFL. Szmyt’s consistent performance this season, where he has hit 16 of 19 field goals, has established him as a reliable rookie talent. He and the Browns are gearing up to face the San Francisco 49ers next.
Lastly, Harrison Mevis, another former Birmingham Stallion, shone in his third straight start for the Los Angeles Rams during prime time on NBC. Known as “The Thiccer Kicker,” Mevis converted all four extra points and kicked his first two career field goals, including a 52-yarder in the second half, helping the Rams maintain their lead in the NFC. As the Rams prepare to clash with the Carolina Panthers next Sunday, Mevis’s rising career is a bright spot for the team.
Overall, the performances of these UFL alumni underscore the increasing impact of spring football leagues, with 62 players from this era currently on NFL rosters or practice squads this season. This wave of talent continues to enrich the NFL, offering a hopeful outlook for the future of aspiring football players.