What is the current NFL field goal length record? This is a question that often comes up in discussions about the most impressive moments in the history of the National Football League (NFL). The record for the longest field goal in NFL history is a testament to the skill, power, and precision required of kickers in professional football.
The current NFL field goal length record stands at an incredible 64 yards, set by Matt Prater of the Denver Broncos on December 8, 2013. This record-breaking kick was made against the Detroit Lions at the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. The kick was part of a 51-48 victory for the Broncos, a game that is often remembered for its high-scoring nature and Prater’s historic feat.
To put this achievement into perspective, only a handful of kickers have ever successfully made field goals from beyond 60 yards. The previous record, which Prater broke, was held by Tom Dempsey of the New Orleans Saints, who made a 63-yard field goal on November 8, 1970. Dempsey’s kick was notable because it was made with a shoe that had only one toe, as Dempsey was born without a big toe on his kicking foot.
Achieving such a long field goal requires a combination of physical strength, technical skill, and mental fortitude. Kickers must be able to generate enough power to propel the ball through the air over the crossbar, while also ensuring that the ball is accurate and on target. The 64-yard field goal is not only a record but also a symbol of the evolution of kicking techniques and equipment in the NFL.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of successful field goals from distances beyond 50 yards. This is partly due to advancements in training methods, which help kickers develop the necessary strength and technique. Additionally, the use of specialized kicking shoes and other equipment has played a role in enhancing the performance of kickers.
The current NFL field goal length record will likely stand for years to come, as the distance required to break it is immense. However, as the game continues to evolve, it is possible that future kickers will push the boundaries even further, challenging the limits of what is considered possible in professional football. Until then, Matt Prater’s 64-yard field goal will remain a highlight of the NFL’s rich history and a testament to the incredible skill of the game’s kickers.
