The NFL has seen some incredible moments over the years, but few are as thrilling as record-breaking field goals. These long-distance kicks showcase not only the power and precision of the league’s best kickers but also their ability to perform under immense pressure. From game-winning shots as time expires to awe-inspiring displays of leg strength, these field goals have cemented their place in football history.
Jake Elliott’s 61-Yard Field Goal
On September 24, 2017, Jake Elliott of the Philadelphia Eagles made an unforgettable 61-yard field goal against the New York Giants. The kick came as time expired, giving the Eagles a thrilling 27-24 victory and sending fans into a frenzy. This game-winning field goal marked Elliott’s career-long and solidified his place in Eagles’ history. The moment was especially significant as he was a rookie at the time, demonstrating poise and confidence in a high-pressure situation. His kick helped shift momentum for the Eagles, contributing to the team’s eventual Super Bowl-winning season. His impressive leg strength and precision were on full display, making this a defining moment in his career. This 61-yarder remains a highlight for Eagles fans and one of the most dramatic finishes in recent NFL history.
Jason Myers’ 61-Yard Field Goal
On October 7, 2018, Jason Myers of the New York Jets kicked a 61-yard field goal against the Denver Broncos. This successful attempt set a new franchise record for the Jets. His powerful leg and accuracy have been key assets for the Jets’ special teams unit. This achievement highlighted the increasing range and precision of modern NFL kickers. His 61-yard field goal remains a significant moment in Jets’ history. His performance has set a new standard for long-distance kicking in the franchise.
Graham Gano’s 63-Yard Field Goal
On October 7, 2018, Graham Gano of the Carolina Panthers tied the then-second-longest field goal in NFL history with a 63-yard kick against the New York Giants. This game-winning field goal, made with just one second remaining, secured a 33-31 victory for the Panthers. His successful attempt matched the previous record set by Tom Dempsey and Jason Elam. The kick showcased his exceptional leg strength and composure under pressure. This achievement highlighted the increasing range and accuracy of modern NFL kickers. His performance was instrumental in the Panthers’ success that season.
Brett Maher’s 63-Yard Field Goal
On October 20, 2019, Brett Maher of the Dallas Cowboys made history by kicking a 63-yard field goal against the Philadelphia Eagles. This successful attempt made Maher the first kicker in NFL history to make three field goals of 60 yards or more. The kick came just before halftime, extending the Cowboys’ lead and boosting team morale. His powerful leg and accuracy have been key assets for the Cowboys’ special teams unit. This achievement underscores the evolving capabilities of NFL kickers in terms of range and precision. His performance has set a new standard for long-distance kicking in the league.
Sebastian Janikowski’s 63-Yard Field Goal
On September 12, 2011, Sebastian Janikowski of the Oakland Raiders tied the then-NFL record with a 63-yard field goal against the Denver Broncos. This successful attempt came at the end of the first half, giving the Raiders a 16-3 lead. His powerful leg has been a hallmark of his career, earning him a reputation as one of the league’s most formidable kickers. His 63-yard field goal matched the records set by Tom Dempsey and Jason Elam. This achievement highlighted his exceptional talent and the increasing range of NFL kickers. His performance was instrumental in the Raiders’ victory that day.
David Akers’ 63-Yard Field Goal
On September 9, 2012, David Akers of the San Francisco 49ers tied the then-NFL record with a 63-yard field goal against the Green Bay Packers. This successful attempt came just before halftime, extending the 49ers’ lead. His kick hit the crossbar before bouncing over, adding to the dramatic nature of the play. This achievement showcased his leg strength and accuracy, even in challenging conditions. His 63-yard field goal matched the records set by Tom Dempsey, Jason Elam, and Sebastian Janikowski. His performance was a key factor in the 49ers’ victory that day.
Tom Dempsey’s 63-Yard Field Goal
On November 8, 1970, Tom Dempsey of the New Orleans Saints made history by kicking a 63-yard field goal to defeat the Detroit Lions 19-17. Dempsey, who was born without toes on his right foot, wore a specially designed shoe to accommodate his unique physical condition. His record-breaking kick came in the final seconds of the game, giving the Saints an improbable victory. This field goal stood as the NFL record for over four decades, illustrating its exceptional nature. His kick demonstrated the importance of adaptability and determination in sports. His achievement remains a testament to overcoming adversity and pushing boundaries in professional football. This moment solidified his place in NFL history as an icon of resilience and talent.
Jason Elam’s 63-Yard Field Goal
Jason Elam tied Tom Dempsey’s record with a 63-yard field goal on October 25, 1998, while playing for the Denver Broncos. The kick came against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Mile High Stadium, a venue known for its kicker-friendly altitude. His successful attempt came as the first half ended, energizing his team and fans alike. This kick placed him among the elite kickers in NFL history, showcasing his strength and precision. Sharing the record with Dempsey for several years, his feat was a symbol of kicking excellence during his era. His performance in that game helped solidify his reputation as one of the most reliable kickers in league history.
Matt Prater’s 64-Yard Field Goal
On December 8, 2013, Matt Prater, then with the Denver Broncos, set a new NFL record by kicking a 64-yard field goal against the Tennessee Titans. This remarkable feat occurred at Denver’s Mile High Stadium, where the altitude is known to aid longer kicks. His successful attempt came just before halftime, narrowing the Titans’ lead and shifting momentum in favor of the Broncos. His record stood for nearly eight years until Justin Tucker surpassed it in 2021. Prater’s powerful leg has been a consistent asset throughout his career, earning him multiple Pro Bowl selections. This kick remains one of the most memorable moments in NFL special teams history. His achievement exemplifies the potential for extraordinary plays in the kicking game.
Justin Tucker’s 66-Yard Field Goal
On September 26, 2021, Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens set the NFL record for the longest field goal by successfully kicking a 66-yarder against the Detroit Lions. This game-winning field goal, made as time expired, secured a 19-17 victory for the Ravens. His kick surpassed the previous record of 64 yards held by Matt Prater. Notably, the ball bounced off the crossbar before going through the uprights, adding to the dramatic finish. His exceptional leg strength and accuracy have solidified his reputation as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history. This record-breaking moment occurred at Ford Field in Detroit, making it a memorable event for both teams’ fans. His achievement exemplifies the evolving capabilities of modern NFL kickers.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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