Longest Field Goal in NFL History
When it involves American soccer, few performances are as exhilarating and high-stakes because of the discipline’s intention. A precise blend of method, electricity, and timing, a nicely-finished discipline purpose can be the sport-changer. Over the years, NFL kickers have driven the limits, leading fans to ask: “What is the longest field goal in NFL history?“
In this text, we dive deep into that very query, tracing ancient kicks, breaking down the physics, and comparing legends of the gridiron. Let’s discover how the sphere intention file advanced, who holds it today, and what makes a a success lengthy-distance kick.
What is the Longest Field Goal in NFL History?
The longest discipline goal in NFL history is 66 yards, set through Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens on September 26, 2021, in a sport towards the Detroit Lions.
✅ Key Details:
- Kicker: Justin Tucker
- Team: Baltimore Ravens
- Opponent: Detroit Lions
- Date: September 26, 2021
- Distance: 66 yards
- Result: Game-winning field purpose as time expired
This report-breaking kick shattered the preceding report of 64 yards held via Matt Prater (2013).
Table: Top 10 Longest Field Goals in NFL History
| Rank | Kicker | Team | Distance (yards) | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Justin Tucker | Baltimore Ravens | 66 | Sep 26, 2021 | Detroit Lions | Game-Winner |
| 2 | Matt Prater | Denver Broncos | 64 | Dec 8, 2013 | Tennessee Titans | End of 1st Half |
| 3 | Brett Maher | Dallas Cowboys | 63 | Oct 20, 2019 | Philadelphia Eagles | Made in 3rd Quarter |
| 3 | Sebastian Janikowski | Oakland Raiders | 63 | Sep 12, 2011 | Denver Broncos | End of 1st Half |
| 3 | David Akers | San Francisco 49ers | 63 | Sep 9, 2012 | Green Bay Packers | 1st Quarter |
| 3 | Tom Dempsey | New Orleans Saints | 63 | Nov 8, 1970 | Detroit Lions | Game-Winner |
| 3 | Jason Elam | Denver Broncos | 63 | Oct 25, 1998 | Jacksonville Jaguars | End of 1st Half |
| 3 | Graham Gano | Carolina Panthers | 63 | Sep 16, 2018 | New York Giants | Game-Winner |
| 3 | Matt Bryant | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 62 | Oct 22, 2006 | Philadelphia Eagles | Game-Winner |
| 10 | Stephen Gostkowski | New England Patriots | 62 | Dec 4, 2017 | Buffalo Bills | End of Half |
How Do Kickers Achieve Such Long Field Goals?
1. Power and Technique
The potential to kick a 60+ backyard discipline intention comes from a mixture of leg power, plant-foot placement, ball contact, and observe-via.
2. Weather Conditions
Many report-breaking area dreams have been made in favorable climate (like Denver’s thin altitude air), assisting the ball travel farther.
3. Field Conditions and Altitude
High-altitude stadiums like Denver’s Empower Field can aid in longer kicks because of decreased air resistance.
4. Mental Composure
Hitting a area intention beneath pressure, in particular at the cease of the game, requires intense mental consciousness and calm execution.
Evolution of Field Goal Records Over Time
| Year | Kicker | Distance (yards) | Record Held For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1970 | Tom Dempsey | 63 | 43 years |
| 1998 | Jason Elam | 63 | Tied with Dempsey |
| 2013 | Matt Prater | 64 | 8 years |
| 2021 | Justin Tucker | 66 | Current Record Holder |
The document has most effectively been damaged some times in over 50 years, displaying how rare these moments are.
What Makes Justin Tucker’s 66-Yard Kick So Special?
- Perfect timing: The ball became snapped with only seconds left at the clock.
- Clutch overall performance: The field purpose gained the sport.
- Historical importance: No one had ever made a 66-backyard kick in a live NFL game.
- Accuracy: The ball hit the crossbar and bounced via, including dramatic aptitude.
“It’s were given the space, it’s got the leg… it’s accurate!” – Iconic remark moment from that suit.
Famous Quotes About Long Field Goals
“You practice for moments like those. You visualize it, and whilst the opportunity comes, you’re making it count.” – Justin Tucker
“It’s one component to kick a protracted discipline purpose. It’s another to do it beneath stress.” – Matt Prater
Video Replay Value and Media Buzz
Justin Tucker’s report kick went viral worldwide, with hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube, Twitter, and ESPN. Analysts called it the best kick in NFL history. It trended for days and cemented Tucker’s legacy.
Psychological Edge of Long Kicks
Players like Tucker and Prater no longer most effective kick a ways but have a psychological part. When opposing teams know a kicker can score from 60+ yards, it changes defensive strategies and play-calling decisions close to midfield.
Why Altitude Matters in Long Field Goals
- Denver’s Mile High Stadium has visible a couple of 60+ backyard kicks.
- Air density is lower at higher altitudes, reducing drag at the football.
- Kickers have longer grasp time and more yards of travel in those conditions.
NFL International Games & Field Goals
In NFL London Games or Mexico City matches, subject situations range. High-altitude towns like Mexico City (7,200 feet elevation) offer comparable blessings as Denver.
Summary Table: Important Data on Longest NFL Field Goals
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Longest Kick | 66 yards (Justin Tucker, 2021) |
| Stadium | Ford Field (Detroit) |
| Weather | Indoor |
| Importance | Game-winning kick |
| Ball Contact | Clean, low angle, high velocity |
| Former Record Holder | Matt Prater (64 yards in 2013) |
Conclusion
The longest area purpose in NFL records isn’t only a stat, it’s an image of willpower, precision, and athletic excellence. Justin Tucker’s 66-yarder wasn’t pretty much distance; it was approximately timing, execution, and records-making beneath strain. As NFL kickers continue to train harder and smarter, lovers eagerly look ahead to the instant someone tries and perhaps lands a document-breaking sixty seven or even 70-yard kick.
Summary
The longest field aim in NFL history became a jaw-losing 66-yard kick by Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens in 2021. This report-breaking area goal bowled over lovers and redefined expectancies for NFL kickers. Learn approximately the history, pinnacle discipline dreams, situations, and gamers behind the longest kicks in the NFL.
FAQs: Longest Field Goal in NFL History
What is the average range for NFL kickers?
Most NFL kickers can constantly hit from 45–55 yards, but 60+ yarders are uncommon.
Has each person kicked a 70-yard subject aim within the NFL?
Not yet in an legit game. Some kickers have hit 70+ in exercise, but no longer during a fit.
Is altitude the best reason for lengthy kicks?
No. While it enables, leg electricity, accuracy, and technique are essential too.
Can subject desires be made longer in the future?
Yes, with evolving training strategies and athlete overall performance, a 70-yard discipline aim might be viable in coming years.
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