After kicking the game-winning field goal at Ford Field last year, Justin Tucker now holds the record. He surpassed Matt Prater, who had previously held the mark, who, when playing for the Denver Broncos in a 2013 game against the Tennessee Titans, drilled a 64-yard try to close the first half.
Prater’s goal came at Mile High in Denver, while Tucker’s came while playing in a dome in Detroit. Lower air density due to elevation results in longer throw, punt, and kick distances.
Although Tucker’s kick broke the NFL record, it fell far short of the NCAA mark. Ove Johansson of Abilene Christian kicked a 69-yard field goal against East Texas State on October 16, 1976.
By Week 3 of the previous campaign, kicker Justin Tucker had broken Matt Prater’s eight-year record with a game-winning 66-yard field goal that helped the Baltimore Ravens defeat the Detroit Lions.
Prater’s 62-yard field goal for the Arizona Cardinals was good for the top 10 in the NFL just one week before.
As the preseason comes to an end, all eyes turn to the next season and its potential for making history.
Fans may witness several world-record kicks this season with Tucker and Prater both back in protective gear. Or maybe a fresh name will appear to join the rankings.
