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Today’s post is sponsored by StreamYard.
For decades, NFL kickers were viewed as specialists who simply came on the field for extra points and field goals. But today, their role has expanded, their performance has improved dramatically, and they have become an essential part of winning football games. So why are kickers so much better now than they were in the past?
One of the biggest factors is technique. In earlier eras, many kickers used a straight-on kicking style, where the toe struck the ball. Modern kickers overwhelmingly use the soccer-style approach, striking the ball with the instep for better accuracy and control. This shift alone revolutionized the position, allowing for longer, more accurate kicks.
Training methods have also advanced. Kickers now have specialized strength and conditioning programs designed to enhance leg power, flexibility, and stability. They also use slow-motion video analysis to perfect their form, studying every detail of their plant foot, swing path, and follow-through.
Equipment improvements have played a role as well. Footballs are more standardized, kicking shoes are optimized for precision, and playing surfaces—whether natural grass or synthetic turf—are more consistent, reducing variables that once plagued kickers.
The mental side of the game is another area where kickers have evolved. Sports psychology has become a regular part of their preparation, with many working closely with mental performance coaches to handle the pressure of game-deciding kicks. As a result, today’s kickers are not just physically sharper but mentally tougher.
Statistics show the difference. In the 1970s, NFL kickers hit around 60% of their field goals. Today, the league-wide average is above 85%, with several kickers consistently hitting from beyond 50 yards. Records for the longest field goal keep getting broken, with Justin Tucker’s 66-yarder in 2021 being the current benchmark.
In short, better technique, improved training, advanced equipment, and enhanced mental preparation have turned kickers into precision athletes. As the NFL continues to evolve, one thing is clear—kickers are no longer just role players. They are game-changers.
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