What Happened
On August 9, 2025, Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Cam Little made headlines by successfully kicking a 70-yard field goal during a preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The kick, which occurred as time expired in the first half, was notable not only for its impressive distance but also because it would have set a new NFL record had it been made during a regular-season game. The current record for the longest field goal in NFL history is 66 yards, held by Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens, who achieved this feat on September 26, 2021.
Despite the remarkable nature of Little’s kick, it will not be counted in the official NFL records because preseason statistics are not recognized in the same way as regular-season performances. Little’s achievement, however, has generated excitement and discussion among fans and analysts alike, as it showcases his potential as a kicker in the league.
Key Details
- Event: Cam Little’s 70-yard field goal during a preseason game.
- Date: August 9, 2025.
- Opponent: Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Current NFL Record: 66 yards, set by Justin Tucker on September 26, 2021.
- Context: Preseason statistics do not count toward official records, meaning Little’s kick will not be recognized in the NFL history books.
Little’s kick was described as having crossed the goalposts with several yards to spare, indicating his strong leg strength. The Jaguars’ head coach, Liam Coen, noted that the decision to allow Little to attempt the kick was made in response to the kicker’s eagerness and confidence. Little had previously demonstrated his capability in training camp, where he had successfully attempted long field goals.
Multiple Perspectives
Opinions surrounding Little’s kick vary, particularly regarding its significance. Supporters of Little argue that the successful 70-yard kick demonstrates his potential to break records in the future and positions him as a valuable asset for the Jaguars. They highlight his previous performance in the 2024 season, where he made 27 of 29 field goals, including five from 50 yards or longer.
Conversely, some analysts caution against overhyping the achievement due to its occurrence during the preseason, where the stakes are lower and the competition may not reflect regular-season intensity. Critics may argue that while the kick is impressive, it should be viewed as a demonstration of potential rather than an indication of future performance in high-pressure situations.
Context & Background
The significance of field goals in the NFL cannot be overstated, as they often play a crucial role in determining the outcome of games. The record for the longest field goal has been a point of interest and competition among kickers for decades. Justin Tucker’s 66-yard kick was notable not only for its distance but also for the circumstances under which it was made—inside a dome at Ford Field, which can provide favorable kicking conditions.
Little’s 70-yard attempt, while not officially recognized, has reignited discussions about the evolving capabilities of kickers in the NFL. As training techniques and equipment improve, the potential for longer kicks continues to grow. Little’s performance may serve as a benchmark for future kickers aiming to break existing records.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While Cam Little’s 70-yard field goal has generated excitement, several uncertainties remain. The most pressing question is whether he can replicate such performance in regular-season games, where the pressure and stakes are significantly higher. Additionally, it remains to be seen how Little will perform throughout the 2025 season and whether he can maintain the consistency he demonstrated in his rookie year.
Moreover, as the NFL continues to evolve, it is unclear how future advancements in training and technology will influence kicking performance. Will we see more kickers attempting and succeeding at longer distances? The answers to these questions will unfold as the regular season progresses and as Little’s career develops.
In conclusion, while Cam Little’s 70-yard field goal is an exciting moment in preseason football, it serves as a reminder of the potential for records to be broken in the future, as well as the importance of context in evaluating athletic achievements.
