Former Arkansas Razorback kicker Cam Little made NFL history on Sunday, drilling a 68-yard field goal to end the first half against the Las Vegas Raiders and set a new league record for the longest made field goal.
Lined up on the left hash mark, Little’s booming kick was well within the uprights and easily cleared the crossbar, appearing that it would have been good from at least five more yards. The field goal showcased one of the strongest legs in the league and demonstrated just how much room to spare Little had on the record-breaking attempt.
Confidence from the Start
Little entered the season confident in his long-distance ability after making a 70-yard field goal during a Jaguars preseason game. That kick provided an early sign that he had the power to challenge NFL records once the regular season began.
His leg strength was no surprise to those who followed his college career. While at Arkansas, Little showed flashes of long-range potential, though there were likely missed opportunities for extremely long attempts as Razorbacks head coach Sam Pittman often opted against taking the shot in game situations.
Record-Breaking Season for Long Field Goals
According to ESPN Research, there have been seven field goals of at least 60 yards this season, already the most in a single season in NFL history. The previous record was five, set in both 2022 and 2023. The kickers have been attempting longer field goals at a historic rate which goes to show with some of the leagues scoring going up. Head coaches are actually confident to have their guys attempt them as well, which is a fresh light from what we've been accustomed to seeing in recent past.
Little’s 68-yarder broke the mark previously held by Justin Tucker, who made a 66-yard field goal for the Baltimore Ravens on September 26, 2021. Justin Tucker was considered by many to be the best kicker in the league for a long time and arguably one of the best ever. Little could be on the fast track of being the next man up.
More Opportunities Ahead
With Little now holding the record, it would not be a surprise if Jaguars head coach Liam Coen gives him more chances from long range, especially knowing he had extra distance to spare on his record-setting kick.
Teams are increasingly more willing to attempt long field goals before halftime, when there is less concern about giving up favorable field position on a miss. Little’s success further supports this approach, proving that elite kickers can convert from distances once thought unrealistic.
A New Standard for NFL Kickers
Cam Little’s historic field goal has not only rewritten the record books but also highlighted the continued evolution of kicking in the NFL. Kickers that can hit from distances like that and hit them become an extremely valuable asset for any NFL team. With his combination of power and accuracy, Little has quickly become one of the league’s most dangerous weapons and a reminder that the limits of leg strength are still being pushed further than ever before.