The NFL landscape is constantly evolving, and one of the most striking trends in recent years has been the increasing range and consistency of field goal kickers. What was once considered a “bomb” from 50 yards is now almost routine, and kicks from 55, 60, and even beyond are becoming more common. This isn’t just a fluke; it’s the result of a confluence of factors, and at The Kicking System, we’ve been at the forefront of understanding and teaching the principles behind this “long ball revolution.”
So, what’s behind this remarkable improvement?
1. Advanced Training Methodologies: Kickers are no longer just athletes who “kick a ball.” They are highly specialized professionals who benefit from sophisticated training. This includes:
- Biomechanics and Technique Refinement: Coaches and athletes now have a deeper understanding of the biomechanics of the kicking motion. Precision coaching focuses on optimizing every aspect, from approach steps to plant foot stability, hip rotation, and follow-through, maximizing power transfer and accuracy.
- Functional Strength & Flexibility: As highlighted in our “Unlock Your Kicking Power” article, kickers are integrating more sport-specific functional training and dynamic flexibility routines. This builds core strength, improves balance, and increases range of motion, all crucial for generating explosive power and preventing injury, especially for longer attempts.
- Data Analysis & Technology: Advanced video analysis and tracking technologies allow kickers and coaches to dissect every kick, identify minute inefficiencies, and make data-driven adjustments to technique.
2. Evolution of the Game and Specialization: The NFL has embraced the value of special teams, leading to greater investment in dedicated kicking coaches and facilities. Kickers are often full-time specialists from a younger age, allowing for more focused development. The pressure to convert longer field goals, especially in clutch situations, has also pushed athletes and coaches to innovate.
3. Talent Pool Depth: The global growth of soccer, combined with improved youth football development, means there’s a larger and more talented pool of athletes entering the kicking pipeline. Many kickers have a strong soccer background, providing a natural foundation for ball striking and leg strength.
This trend is clearly visible in the statistics: kickers achieved a remarkable 72% success rate on field goal attempts from 50 yards and beyond, marking a new peak in accuracy from long distance. This dramatic increase underscores the advancements in training and the overall improvement in specialist talent. A prime example is former TKS student Jason Myers of the Seattle Seahawks, who in the 2024 NFL season successfully converted 9 of his 12 field goal attempts from 50 yards or more, demonstrating this elite-level performance.
At The Kicking System, we pride ourselves on being at the cutting edge of this evolution. Whether it’s optimizing your technique for a 60-yard attempt or building the functional strength to maintain consistency throughout a grueling season, we equip our athletes with the tools to contribute to the long ball revolution. The future of kicking is here, and it’s going further than ever before.
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