-
Michael DiRocco
LAS VEGAS — For Cam Little, the prospect of achieving a new NFL record via field goal was approached with a practical mindset.
The indoor setting and natural grass of Allegiant Stadium negated any environmental variables that might compromise his 68-yard attempt. His main focus, he recalled, was ensuring the trajectory remained true.
The Jaguars’ second-year kicker fulfilled that requirement as the first half concluded, leading to their eventual 30-29 overtime victory against the Las Vegas Raiders. His kick surpassed the crossbar with room to spare and impacted the wall beyond the end zone, establishing a new NFL record for the longest field goal, exceeding the previous one by 2 yards.
“If the distance is there and the direction is correct, it’s bound to succeed,” Little commented. “Logan [Cooke], the holder, and I had a brief discussion just before the kick. I mentioned my intention to strike the ball with maximum force. In my experience, that approach often yields positive results.
“So, I proceeded with unrestrained power. I believe that’s when my performance peaks.”
Little’s achievement eclipsed the former record of 66 yards, established by Justin Tucker, previously with the Baltimore Ravens, during a game against the Detroit Lions on Sept. 26, 2021. Tucker’s kick made contact with the crossbar at Ford Field before going over, securing a 19-16 victory for the Baltimore Ravens over the Detroit Lions. Prior to that, Matt Prater held the NFL record with 64 yards.
According to ESPN Research, this season has already witnessed seven field goals of at least 60 yards, surpassing the highest single-season total in NFL history. The preceding record was five, achieved in both 2022 and 2023.
Coach Liam Coen stated that there was no hesitation in allowing Little to attempt the record-breaking kick. He had successfully executed a 70-yard kick during a preseason game against Pittsburgh, with considerable margin, and the Jaguars — who earlier in the first half had failed to score within the 5-yard line due to a Trevor Lawrence interception in the end zone — sought a boost in momentum.
“We arrived at that decision swiftly,” Coen explained. “I consulted with [special teams coordinator] Heath [Farwell]. Heath’s response was immediate: ‘Let’s proceed.’ I concurred, ‘Indeed, let’s proceed. What alternative is there? Resort to a Hail Mary?’ Considering his prior success and the favorable indoor environment, combined with his strong performance in pregame warmups…
“I immediately sprinted onto the field upon his successful kick, emulating a Super Bowl victory celebration as I approached him. It served as a catalyst for our team.”
Despite Little’s three missed kicks in the Jaguars’ preceding two games — consisting of two field goal attempts beyond 50 yards and one missed PAT — Coen affirmed that the team retained unwavering confidence in the second-year player from Arkansas.
“Despite external pressures attempting to undermine our faith in him, I can unequivocally state that we have never wavered in our belief in him,” Coen emphasized. “He utilized the bye week to mentally reset, and upon his return, he sets a new NFL record on his inaugural kick.”
Little’s record underscores the unpredictable nature of kickers in the NFL. Shortly before, Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson’s PAT veered wide to the right.
“My heart goes out to the players in the locker room,” Raiders coach Pete Carroll expressed. “It’s infuriating. Witnessing the longest field goal in the annals of the game, coupled with a missed extra point.”
Reflecting on his 70-yard kick against the Steelers back in August, Little anticipated that Tucker’s record would soon be surpassed. On Sunday, he jested that his own record might only stand for a week.
“I consistently emphasize, whenever questioned about the [70-yarder], the abundance of talented kickers throughout this league,” Little stated. “Numerous individuals possess the capability to execute such a kick; it merely hinges on seizing the opportune moment. Therefore, I harbor no doubt that someone will eventually break this record.”
