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In the NFL, kickers are specialists whose performance can determine the outcome of a game in a single play. While they don’t carry the same esteem or attention as quarterbacks or wide receivers, their role in the roster remains pivotal.
Evaluation of the best NFL kickers generally comes down to various factors, including their accuracy, playing longevity, clutch performance levels and impressive leg strength. These elements help define their legacy, showcasing how vital kickers can be to a team’s success, especially in high-stakes situations where every point counts.
Ranking the Greatest NFL Kickers of All Time
When determining the best NFL kickers in history, it’s essential to ensure fairness and accuracy by using a comprehensive methodology. Consider the following criteria:
- Field goal percentage: Of all NFL kicker stats, field goal percentage is the primary measure of accuracy and reliability. A higher percentage signifies consistent performance and the ability to convert scoring opportunities effectively.
- Longevity and consistency: Although you wouldn’t regard a kicker as one of the strongest players in the NFL, evaluating how long they maintain an elite level of performance is necessary. Longevity speaks to a kicker’s durability, while sustained consistency reflects an ability to perform reliably throughout their career.
- Clutch factor: The best kickers in the NFL can perform admirably in high-pressure situations, like when pulling off game-winning kicks during playoff games. NFL kicker stats often highlight kickers who excel under pressure, making them more valuable during critical moments.
- Kicking range: A kicker’s ability to convert long-distance field goals is a key factor in gauging their prowess. Consistently making successful attempts from beyond 50 yards showcases an extraordinary leg strength and adds a distinctive dimension to a team’s scoring potential.
Together, these criteria provide a well-rounded evaluation of the best NFL kickers of all time. Although you won’t see any of them among the highest-paid NFL players — 2025’s highest-paid NFL kicker, Brandon McManus of the Packers, with $7 million in earnings, pales in comparison to the $40 million earned by 10th-placed quarterback Derek Carr of the Saints — their value is unquestionable.
Who Are the Best NFL Kickers in History?
There have been many fantastic kickers in the history of the NFL. Take a look and see if you agree with those on the list.
15. Jason Hanson (1992–2012)
- Field goals made: 495
- Field goal percentage: 82.4
- Total points scored: 2,150
- Longest field goal: 56 yards
Jason Hanson is a legendary kicker who played his entire 21-year NFL career with the Detroit Lions. Despite being part of a historically unsuccessful team, he showcased remarkable longevity and consistent production.
Hanson’s impressive accuracy and ability to deliver under pressure earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Even in challenging years like 2008’s 0-16 season, when the Lions were the worst team in the NFL, his resilience and contributions to the team solidified his status as one of the greatest NFL kickers of all time.
14. Matt Prater (2006–Present)
- Field goals made: 425
- Field goal percentage: 83.8
- Total points scored: 1,908
- Longest field goal: 64 yards
Matt Prater, now with the Buffalo Bills, is renowned for his incredible leg strength and consistently ranks among the best NFL kickers of all time. Since 2006, he has established a reputation for hitting multiple field goals from 59 yards and beyond, showcasing remarkable range and accuracy.
Prater’s standout performance includes holding the NFL’s longest field goal record at 64 yards from 2013 to 2021, underscoring his ability in high-pressure situations. He has made significant contributions to the Denver Broncos and the Detroit Lions.
13. Jason Myers (2015–Present)
- Field goals made: 297
- Field goal percentage: 85.6
- Total points scored: 1,289
- Longest field goal: 61 yards
Jason Myers has made a name for himself as one of the most accurate kickers in the NFL over the past 11 seasons. His recent years have been marked by elite accuracy, including a 100% field-goal percentage for the Seattle Seahawks in 2020, earning him two Pro Bowl selections since 2018.
Myers’ consistent ability to deliver under pressure, combined with his notable field goal percentage, strengthens his reputation. His valuable contributions to teams like the Seahawks showcase his place among the greatest NFL kickers in history.
12. Harrison Butker (2017–Present)
- Field goals made: 251
- Field goal percentage: 88.4
- Total points scored: 1,122
- Longest field goal: 62 yards
Harrison Butker fast became a key player for the Kansas City Chiefs after entering the NFL in 2017. His franchise, especially during the team’s Super Bowl runs, felt his impact, as his ability to deliver high-pressure kicks was crucial to their success.
With an impressive field goal percentage, Butker consistently demonstrates accuracy and reliability, even during a woeful 2025 Chiefs campaign. He demonstrates a powerful combination of strong leg power and clutch performance in critical moments. Butker is an invaluable cog in the Chiefs’ future efforts to return as championship competitors.
11. Jason Elam (1993–2007)
- Field goals made: 436
- Field goal percentage: 80.7
- Total points scored: 1,983
- Longest field goal: 63 yards
Jason Elam is one of the greatest kickers in NFL history. He is a two-time Super Bowl champion who played in the NFL from 1993 to 2007, primarily with the Denver Broncos. Renowned for power and accuracy, he set the standard for kickers during his tenure.
Elam’s impressive stats include a remarkable 63-yard field goal in 1998, showcasing his exceptional leg strength. His contributions to the Broncos’ Super Bowl victories in 1997 and 1999 highlight his clutch performances in critical moments.
10. Lou Groza (1946–1967)
- Field goals made: 234
- Field goal percentage: 56.5
- Total points scored: 1,349
- Longest field goal: 52 yards
Lou Groza was a groundbreaking player in the AAFC and NFL, serving as both a kicker and an offensive tackle for the Cleveland Browns from 1946 to 1967. His dual-threat capability exemplifies the evolution of the kicker position.
Groza was a key contributor to the Browns’ success, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and helping secure several championships. His impressive scoring ability, combined with the skill set of a lineman, highlights his exceptional versatility.
9. Jan Stenerud (1966–1985)
- Field goals made: 373
- Field goal percentage: 76.0
- Total points scored: 1,699
- Longest field goal: 63 yards
In 1991, Jan Stenerud became the first NFL player solely employed as a kicker to receive induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, marking a significant milestone in NFL history. From his first appearance with the Kansas City Chiefs in 1967, he began transforming the kicking position with his exceptional leg strength and accuracy.
Stenerud’s contributions were vital to the Chiefs and later the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings, helping them achieve notable successes. His impressive career stats, combined with his groundbreaking role as a dedicated kicker, firmly establish him as one of the greatest in NFL history.
8. George Blanda (1949–1975)
- Field goals made: 335
- Field goal percentage: 52.3
- Total points scored: 2,002 (including touchdowns)
- Longest field goal: 53 yards
George Blanda had an illustrious 26-year NFL career. Like Lou Groza, Blanda was a kicker and quarterback for most of his NFL career. His incredible longevity and dual-threat status made him a unique asset to his teams, particularly the Oakland Raiders during the early to mid-1960s.
Blanda excelled under pressure, often leading his team to victory in clutch moments. His remarkable scoring total showcases his diverse contributions on the field, his lasting impact on the game and exceptional versatility.
7. Matt Stover (1990–2009)
- Field goals made: 471
- Field goal percentage: 83.7
- Total points scored: 2,004
- Longest field goal: 55 yards
Renowned for his quiet consistency and exceptional accuracy during 19 years in the NFL, Matt Stover is primarily recognized for his time with the Baltimore Ravens. The kicker played a crucial role in the Ravens’ Super Bowl XXXV victory.
Stover’s reliable performance in high-pressure situations solidified him as a top-tier kicker. With impressive career stats reflecting his scoring ability, his contributions helped define successful seasons for his teams, including five years with the Cleveland Browns and his final NFL season with the Indianapolis Colts.
6. Gary Anderson (1982–2007)
- Field goals made: 538
- Field goal percentage: 80.1
- Total points scored: 2,434
- Longest field goal: 55 yards
Gary Anderson is considered one of the first truly great and reliable kickers in NFL history, with a career spanning 25 years and including stints with five NFL franchises. He most notably represented the Pittsburgh Steelers for 13 seasons and the Minnesota Vikings, for whom he achieved a 100% field goal success rate in 1998.
Anderson set new standards for accuracy and consistency, with his remarkable field-goal percentage and his career points scored highlighting his effectiveness on the field. This longevity and his performance in clutch situations solidified his legacy, earning him a well-deserved spot among the best NFL kickers.
5. Evan McPherson (2021–Present)
- Field goals made: 119
- Field goal percentage: 83.2
- Total points scored: 561
- Longest field goal: 63 yards
Since entering the NFL in 2021, Evan McPherson has emerged as a standout kicker for the Cincinnati Bengals. Known for his incredible confidence and clutch performances, he played a pivotal role in the Bengals’ 5-2 playoff runs in 2021 and 2022, showcasing remarkable poise in high-pressure situations.
While the franchise hasn’t reached the playoffs since, McPherson’s field goal percentage and ability to make crucial kicks remain impressive. The talented young kicker has redefined expectations for a new generation of up-and-comers in his position.
4. Morten Andersen (1982–2007)
- Field goals made: 565
- Field goal percentage: 79.7
- Total points scored: 2,544
- Longest field goal: 60 yards
Morten Andersen, known as the “Great Dane,” is celebrated for his incredible NFL longevity and kicking skill, playing for 26 years at the top level. He held the title of the NFL’s all-time leading scorer for 13 years between 2006 and 2018.
Andersen’s impressive field goal records and consistency across five franchises, including the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons, showcase his exceptional and enduring talent. His ability to perform at a high level for a prolonged period of time solidifies his status as one of the top kickers in the industry.
3. Adam Vinatieri (1996–2021)
- Field goals made: 599
- Field goal percentage: 83.8
- Total points scored: 2,673
- Longest field goal: 57 yards
Known as “Mr. Clutch,” Adam Vinatieri is one of the most legendary kickers in NFL history, with a career spanning 24 seasons. Renowned for his 2002 and 2004 Super Bowl-winning field goals for the New England Patriots, his ability to perform under pressure earned him a further two Super Bowl rings.
Vinatieri’s remarkable ability to deliver clutch performances has solidified his status as a true legend. The kicker’s impressive career points total makes him the NFL’s all-time leading scorer.
2. Stephen Gostkowski (2006–2020)
- Field goals made: 392
- Field goal percentage: 86.3
- Total points scored: 1,875
- Longest field goal: 62 yards
Stephen Gostkowski took over from Adam Vinatieri and joined the New England Patriots in 2006, playing a pivotal role in extending the franchise’s dynasty until leaving in 2020, helping it win three Super Bowls. His consistency and reliability made him integral to the team’s success, particularly in high-stakes games.
With a substantial field goal percentage and a knack for clutch performances, Gostkowski secured his status as one of the league’s best kickers. His contributions helped solidify the Patriots’ place among the best NFL teams before moving to the Tennessee Titans for his final season.
1. Justin Tucker (2012–Present)
- Field goals made: 417
- Field goal percentage: 89.1
- Total points scored: 1,775
- Longest field goal: 66 yards
Experts widely recognize Justin Tucker as the best kicker in the NFL, due to his unparalleled statistical accuracy since entering the league with the Baltimore Ravens in 2012. Tucker has the third-highest field goal percentage in NFL history. He had the longest successful field goal, by two feet, in NFL history, until Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Cam Little bettered it in November 2025 — an example of how Tucker’s record-breaking feats have redefined NFL kicker expectations.
The Ravens released Tucker in May 2025 following sexual misconduct allegations, and he missed the 2025 NFL season after serving a 10-week suspension. He remains a free agent despite a tryout with the Indianapolis Colts in November 2025. Despite his off-field problems, Tucker’s consistent ability to deliver under pressure in crucial moments solidifies his status as the best kicker in the NFL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best kicker in the NFL right now?
Justin Tucker is widely recognized as the best kicker in the NFL, known for his clutch performances and unrivaled accuracy. However, with Tucker’s enforced hiatus in 2025, other current elite kickers like Evan McPherson of the Bengals and Harrison Butker, a reliable scoring option for the Chiefs, can stake their claims.
What is the longest field goal in NFL history?
The longest field goal in NFL history is Jaguars kicker Cam Little’s record-breaking 68-yarder, set in 2025. This incredible feat broke Justin Tucker’s 66-yard field goal from 2021, showcasing the rookie’s exceptional leg strength and accuracy. Little has since kicked a 67-yard field goal, making him the holder of the two longest successful field goals in NFL history.
How much do NFL kickers make?
NFL kickers generally earn salaries ranging from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars annually, with top-tier kickers securing multi-million dollar contracts. However, they do not rank among the absolute highest-paid NFL players.
How are NFL kicker stats measured?
Metrics help effectively evaluate a kicker’s performance. Statisticians primarily measure NFL kicker stats by:
- Field goal percentage: The ratio of successful kicks to attempts.
- Extra point percentage: The success rate on extra point attempts.
- Touchback percentage: The statistic of how often kickoffs lead to touchdowns.
Are NFL kickers considered strong athletes?
NFL Kickers possess a skill set that emphasizes flexibility, mental toughness and precise technique rather than pure power. While they often have incredible leg strength, they may not have the same physical athleticism as Tom Brady or Jerry Rice, noted as two of the greatest athletes of all time in football.
The Legacy of NFL Kickers
Kickers have played a pivotal role in football history, often as the unsung heroes who decide games with a single kick. The position’s ongoing evolution reflects the increasing importance of accuracy, range and mental fortitude that these specialized players bring to the arena. As the game progresses, the demands on kickers grow, showcasing their invaluable contributions to the sport.
Sports fans should appreciate these specialists, first for their statistics and second for their ability to continuously shine under pressure, which solidifies their place in the annals of NFL greatness.
