The Longest Field Goals in NFL History

 

From Leather to Laced Missiles: A Brief History of Kicking

Field goals weren’t always the potent weapons they are today. In the NFL’s early years, kicking was more of an afterthought, a way to tack on extra points after touchdowns. Even the NFL’s highest-scoring game just had one field goal. But as the league evolved, so did the kicking game. Stubby kicker placements were replaced by a more powerful kicking style, with specialists emerging who could consistently knock through field goals from further and further distances. This wasn’t just about brute strength, though. Ball control, accuracy, and the mental fortitude to handle immense pressure all play a role in launching a successful long-distance field goal.

 

The Brass Ring: The 60+ Yard Field Goal Plateau

For decades, the 60-yard field goal was considered an almost mythical feat. Kickers like Jan Stenerud and Morten Andersen flirted with the mark, but it wasn’t until 1970 that Tom Dempsey shattered the barrier. Born without toes on his right foot, Dempsey defied the odds by booting a staggering 63-yard field goal for the New Orleans Saints. It was a kick that would stand as the record for 28 long years, a testament to Dempsey’s unorthodox yet undeniably effective technique.

 

The Modern Era: Power, Precision, and Record-Breaking Kicks

The late 20th century saw a new breed of kickers emerge. Athletes like Jason Elam, David Akers, and Sebastian Janikowski possessed not only tremendous leg strength but also pinpoint accuracy. The 60-yard barrier began to feel less like a wall and more like a hurdle. Field goals in the 60-yard range became increasingly common, with several kickers coming agonizingly close to setting a new record.

Then, in 2013, Matt Prater, the powerful-legged kicker for the Denver Broncos, did the unthinkable. With seconds ticking away in a game against the Tennessee Titans, Prater uncorked a laser from 64 yards out, sending the crowd and his teammates into a frenzy. The record stood for eight years, a symbol of Prater’s immense talent.

 

The King of Clutch: Justin Tucker and the 66-Yard Game-Winner

But the NFL’s story of long field goals wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Justin Tucker, the Baltimore Ravens’ phenomenal kicker. Tucker, known for his clutch performances and remarkable accuracy, has earned the nickname “Automatic Tucker” for a reason. In 2021, with the Detroit Lions breathing down the Ravens’ neck, Tucker lined up for a game-winning attempt from a mind-boggling 66 yards out. As the silence descended on the stadium, Tucker calmly launched the ball, and it sailed through the uprights with room to spare. It was a kick that defied belief, etching Tucker’s name in the record books and solidifying his place as one of the greatest kickers the league has ever seen.

JUSTIN TUCKERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR pic.twitter.com/vCsHRtfULo

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) September 26, 2021

Beyond the Numbers: The Stories Behind the Kicks

While the distances themselves are impressive, the stories behind the longest field goals in NFL history add another layer of intrigue. Dempsey’s triumph over physical limitations, Prater’s clutch kick in Denver’s thin air, and Tucker’s ice-veined game-winner for the Ravens are all moments that showcase the unique blend of talent and circumstance that goes into a successful long-distance field goal.

 

The Future of Field Goals: Will We See a 70-Yarder?

The evolution of kicking techniques, training methods, and even ball design has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. With kickers like Tucker and others constantly refining their craft, the question begs to be asked: will we ever see a successful 70-yard field goal in the NFL? It’s certainly not out of the realm of possibility. However, factors like wind, weather, and the pressure of the situation will always play a role.

 

More Than Just Distance: The Strategic Significance of Long Field Goals

Long field goals aren’t just about bragging rights and highlight reels. They can have a significant strategic impact on the game. The threat of a long field goal forces defenses to adjust their schemes, potentially opening up passing lanes or running gaps for the offense. Conversely, a missed long-distance attempt can leave a team in a precarious position, especially if they’re deep in their own territory. The ability to consistently convert from long range can be a game-changer for teams, giving them an extra weapon in their offensive arsenal.

 

The Debate Rages On: Should We Limit Field Goal Range?

The increasing range of field goals has sparked debate among some fans and analysts. There’s a concern that the emphasis on kicking might overshadow the more exciting aspects of the game, like touchdowns and big plays. Additionally, some argue that long field goals can be fluky, decided more by chance than skill.

However, proponents of the long field goal counter that it adds another layer of strategy and excitement to the game. A well-timed long kick can be just as thrilling as a touchdown pass, and the pressure on kickers in those situations is immense. Ultimately, the debate about field goal range is likely to continue, but one thing’s for sure: the ability to consistently knock through long field goals remains a valuable asset in the NFL.

 

Beyond the NFL: A Global Look at Long Field Goals

While the NFL boasts the most impressive long field goals in American football, it’s worth noting that other leagues have their own long-distance kicking heroes. In the Canadian Football League (CFL), for instance, the record for the longest field goal is held by Paul McCallum, who drilled a remarkable 62-yarder in 2001. This highlights the growing emphasis on kicking across different professional football leagues.

 

Conclusion: A Celebration of Kicking Excellence

The longest field goals in NFL history represent a fascinating intersection of athleticism, technology, and strategy. They are testaments to the incredible talent and dedication of kickers who have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether it’s Dempsey’s unorthodox technique, Prater’s booming kick in Denver, or Tucker’s game-winning heroics, these moments have become ingrained in NFL lore, reminding us all that sometimes, the outcome of a game can hinge on a single, perfectly executed kick. So, the next time you witness a clutch field goal attempt, take a moment to appreciate the remarkable skill and unwavering focus it takes to send the pigskin sailing through the uprights, especially from distances that once seemed like a fantasy.