Top Most Longest field Goals in NFL History

The NFL, or National Football League, is a professional American football league consisting of 32 teams, divided equally between the National Football Conference (NFC) and the American Football Conference (AFC). The NFL is one of the major professional sports leagues in the United States and the most popular football league in the world.

Longest field Goals in NFL History

Throughout the NFL’s 104-year history, placekickers have gotten better at making long-distance field goals. Only 11 players have kicked field goals from 62 yards or longer in an official game. The longest field goal in NFL history is a 66-yard kick by Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens, made on September 26, 2021, during a game against the Detroit Lions. This record-breaking field goal was made as time expired, securing a 19-17 victory for the Ravens​.

Here’s a list of the longest field goals ever made in NFL history, showing the amazing power and accuracy of these NFL kickers.

Table of Content

  • What is the Longest Field Goal in NFL History?
  • Other Notable Longest Field Goal in NFL History
  • Longest Field Goals in NFL History (63-Yard Field Goals)
  • Longest Field Goals in NFL History (62-Yard Field Goals)
  • Longest Field Goals in Playoff History
  • Longest Field Goals in Super Bowl History
  • Top 5 Longest Field Goals in NFL History

What is the Longest Field Goal in NFL History?

The history of long field goals in the NFL is marked by remarkable feats of accuracy and leg strength. Here’s an overview of the longest field goals ever made, along with key facts, figures, and notable news.

Justin Tucker – 66 Yards (2021)

Justin Tucker

Justin Tucker made the longest field goal in 2021 of the NFL history which is 66 Yards long. On September 26, 2021, during a game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Detroit Lions, kicker Justin Tucker made history. With the Ravens trailing by one point and only three seconds left on the clock, Tucker executed a stunning 66-yard field goal.

This remarkable kick not only secured a 19-17 victory for the Ravens but also set a new NFL record for the longest field goal ever made. The ball struck the crossbar before bouncing through the uprights, a dramatic finish that underscored Tucker’s exceptional skill and poise under pressure​.

Also Check:

Other Notable Longest Field Goal in NFL History

Matt Prater – 64 Yards (2013)

On December 8, 2013, Matt Prater of the Denver Broncos set a then-NFL record with a 64-yard field goal during a game against the Tennessee Titans at Mile High Stadium in Denver. This extraordinary kick, executed in the thin air of Denver, surpassed the previous record and stood as the longest field goal in NFL history until it was surpassed by Justin Tucker’s 66-yarder in 2021.

Prater’s kick was not only a testament to his powerful leg but also played a crucial role in the Broncos’ performance that day, as they went on to win the game. Prater’s achievement remains a significant milestone in the history of the NFL, highlighting the remarkable advancements in the abilities of placekickers over the years​

Longest Field Goals in NFL History (63-Yard Field Goals)

1. Tom Dempsey – 63 Yards (1970)

On November 8, 1970, Tom Dempsey of the New Orleans Saints made history with a record-setting 63-yard field goal to win the game against the Detroit Lions. Remarkably, Dempsey was born without toes on his right foot, making his achievement even more extraordinary. His kick, made in an era where the goalposts were located at the front of the end zone, not only secured a victory for the Saints but also set a new benchmark for placekickers in the NFL.

2. Jason Elam – 63 Yards (1998)

On October 25, 1998, Jason Elam of the Denver Broncos tied Tom Dempsey’s longstanding record by kicking a 63-yard field goal during a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Mile High Stadium. This impressive feat matched the record set by Dempsey in 1970 and highlighted Elam’s exceptional leg strength and accuracy.

3. Sebastian Janikowski – 63 Yards (2011)

On September 12, 2011, Sebastian Janikowski of the Oakland Raiders made a record-tying 63-yard field goal during a Monday Night Football game against the Denver Broncos. This impressive kick matched the previous NFL record for the longest field goal, a feat achieved under the bright lights and high stakes of prime-time football. Janikowski’s powerful leg and precision were on full display, securing his place in NFL history alongside other legendary kickers.

4. David Akers – 63 Yards (2012)

On September 9, 2012, during a game at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers kicker David Akers made a remarkable 63-yard field goal. This kick, which tied the NFL record for the longest field goal at the time, demonstrated Akers’ exceptional skill and power. The left-footed kicker’s successful attempt occurred just before halftime, contributing to the 49ers’ momentum in the game.

5. Graham Gano – 63 Yards (2018)

On October 7, 2018, Graham Gano of the Carolina Panthers executed a dramatic game-winning field goal against the New York Giants. With only a second remaining on the clock and the Panthers trailing by one point, Gano lined up for a 63-yard attempt. His powerful kick sailed through the uprights, clinching a thrilling 33-31 victory for the Panthers. This impressive feat not only demonstrated Gano’s exceptional skill but also tied him for the third-longest field goal in NFL history at the time.

6. Brett Maher – 63 Yards (2019)

On October 20, 2019, Brett Maher of the Dallas Cowboys made a remarkable 63-yard field goal during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles. This impressive feat added to Maher’s reputation for having one of the strongest and most reliable legs in the NFL.

Longest Field Goals in NFL History (62-Yard Field Goals)

1. Harrison Butker – 62 Yards (2022)

Team: Kansas City Chiefs

In September 25, 2022, Harrison Butker of the Kansas City Chiefs made a remarkable 62-yard field goal during a game against the Los Angeles Chargers. This impressive kick added another highlight to Butker’s career, showcasing his powerful leg and accuracy under pressure. The successful field goal was crucial in the Chiefs’ overall performance, contributing to their competitive edge in the game. Butker’s achievement underscores the increasing range and skill of modern NFL kickers, who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the sport.

2. Matt Prater – 62 Yards (2021)

On September 19, 2021, Matt Prater of the Arizona Cardinals made a remarkable 62-yard field goal during a game against the Minnesota Vikings. This impressive kick showcased Prater’s exceptional leg strength and accuracy, contributing to his reputation as one of the NFL’s premier placekickers.

3. Brett Maher – 62 Yards (2018, 2019)

Brett Maher of the Dallas Cowboys made history with two remarkable 62-yard field goals, one in 2018 and another in 2019. These kicks showcased Maher’s exceptional leg strength and accuracy, solidifying his reputation as one of the most reliable long-distance kickers in the NFL.

His first 62-yard field goal in 2018 and the subsequent one in 2019 both contributed significantly to the Cowboys’ scoring, demonstrating Maher’s consistent ability to perform under pressure and his crucial role in the team’s special teams unit​.

Longest Field Goals in Playoff History

  • 58 yards – Graham Gano, Carolina Panthers (2018)
  • 58 yards – Pete Stoyanovich, Miami Dolphins (1991)

Longest Field Goals in Super Bowl History

  • 57 yards – Harrison Butker, Kansas City Chiefs (2024)
  • 55 yards – Jake Moody, San Francisco 49ers (2024)
  • 54 yards – Steve Christie, Buffalo Bills (1994)
  • 53 yards – Greg Zuerlein, Los Angeles Rams (2019)

Top 5 Longest Field Goals in NFL History

Here are the top 5 longest field goals in NFL history:

1. Justin Tucker – 66 Yards

  • Team: Baltimore Ravens
  • Date: September 26, 2021
  • Game: Ravens vs. Lions

Tucker set the record with a 66-yard field goal as time expired, securing a 19-17 victory for the Ravens against the Detroit Lions​.

2. Matt Prater – 64 Yards

  • Team: Denver Broncos
  • Date: December 8, 2013
  • Game: Broncos vs. Titans

Prater made this record-setting kick at Mile High Stadium, which stood as the longest field goal until Tucker’s 66-yarder in 2021​

3. Tom Dempsey – 63 Yards

  • Team: New Orleans Saints
  • Date: November 8, 1970
  • Game: Saints vs. Lions

Dempsey, born without toes on his right foot, set a then-record with this 63-yard field goal to win the game against the Detroit Lions​.

4. Jason Elam – 63 Yards

  • Team: Denver Broncos
  • Date: October 25, 1998
  • Game: Broncos vs. Jaguars

Elam tied Dempsey’s record with a 63-yard field goal at Mile High Stadium against the Jacksonville Jaguars​.

5. Sebastian Janikowski – 63 Yards

  • Team: Oakland Raiders
  • Date: September 12, 2011
  • Game: Raiders vs. Broncos

Janikowski made this record-tying field goal during a Monday Night Football game against the Denver Broncos​.

How Field Goal Records Are Set and Broken?

Field goal records in the NFL are set and broken through a combination of kicker skill, game conditions, and opportunities. A kicker needs exceptional leg strength and accuracy, honed through extensive practice, to make long-distance field goals.

Game conditions such as wind, weather, and altitude play a significant role; for instance, kicks made at high-altitude stadiums like Denver’s Mile High Stadium often travel farther due to thinner air. Historical context adds to the significance, as long field goals are relatively rare and occur at critical moments, often when time is running out or a game is on the line.

Improved training techniques, better equipment, and favorable conditions also contribute to breaking existing records. For example, Justin Tucker set the current record with a 66-yard field goal in 2021, surpassing Matt Prater’s 64-yard record set in 2013. Each record-setting kick results from a blend of the kicker’s skill, advantageous game conditions, and critical game situations​.

Conclusion

The history of the longest field goals in the NFL showcases the remarkable talents of kickers who have pushed the boundaries of their craft. From Justin Tucker’s record-breaking 66-yard field goal in 2021 to the impressive 64-yarder by Matt Prater in 2013, these feats demonstrate not only the physical prowess of these athletes but also their ability to perform under immense pressure. The achievements of Tom Dempsey, Jason Elam, and Sebastian Janikowski, all with 63-yard kicks, further highlight the evolution of kicking in the NFL.

Top Most Longest field Goals in NFL History – FAQs

Who owns the longest field goal record?

 In 2021 we witnessed the longest field goal in NFL history. The Baltimore Ravens’ Justin Tucker was responsible for this feat, kicking the longest field goal in NFL history from 66 yards away.

Has anyone ever kicked a 75 yard field goal?

 Yes. But not in a game. In 2017, Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker drilled a 75-yard field goal during Pro Bowl practice.

Who has the most 60 yard field goal?

George Blanda has made the most career field goals when gaining 60+ all-purpose yards, with 335 field goals.

Who kicked the longest field goal in Super Bowl history?

Harrison Butker Nails 57-Yard Field Goal, Marking the New Longest in Super Bowl History. Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker’s 57-yard kick through the uprights breaks San Francisco 49ers rookie kicker Jake Moody’s record for the longest field goal in Super Bowl history.

Who made a 70 yard field goal?

As of now, no player has successfully made a 70-yard field goal in an official NFL game.

What is the most field goals in a NFL game?

The record for the most field goals made in a single NFL game is 8, held by Rob Bironas of the Tennessee Titans, set in 2007.

Who kicked a 62 yard field goal?

Several players have kicked 62-yard field goals in NFL history, including Matt Bryant (Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 2006), Stephen Gostkowski (New England Patriots, 2017), and Brett Maher (Dallas Cowboys, 2018 and 2019).

Who kicked a 60 yard field goal?

Many players have kicked 60-yard field goals in NFL history. Notable examples include Greg Zuerlein, Matt Prater, and Justin Tucker.