The Long and Winding Road to a Record-Breaking Field Goal
Despite being a rare and seemingly impossible feat, Chargers kicker Cameron Dicker achieved NFL history by making a fair-catch made field goal from 57 yards, the longest in NFL history. The unusual attempt saw Dicker set up his kick like a kickoff, with a holder, instead of facing a rush and moving the ball back eight yards like a traditional field goal.
The Chargers, led by head coach Vic Harbaugh and special teams coordinator Ryan Ficken, had been practicing the unique play all week. Even quarterback Justin Herbert was thinking he’d be the one taking the field for a Hail Mary pass attempt, but was thrilled with the outcome.
Dicker’s record-breaking kick capped off a Pro Bowl-caliber season, where he’s made 27 out of 30 point-after attempts and 31 of 33 field goals. The Chargers’ (9-6) narrow playoff hopes received a much-needed boost, and Dicker’s historic moment has sparked excitement throughout the NFL community.