Cam Little's Historic Kick

Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Cam Little made headlines during a preseason game by successfully kicking a 70-yard field goal. Although this kick doesn't count as an official NFL record due to it being a preseason game, it has certainly caught the attention of Jaguars' coach Liam Coen. Coen, who has seen Little hit 72 yards in practice, now has a compelling reason to rethink his play-calling strategies for the upcoming 2025 season.

Impact on Play-Calling

Coen acknowledged that Little's impressive range could influence his decisions on the field. Instead of merely aiming to gain a few more yards on a long third down to set up a field goal, Coen might now consider calling a shot play, knowing that Little is comfortably in range from 60-plus yards. This strategic shift could make the Jaguars' offense more dynamic and unpredictable.

The Unofficial Record

Little's 70-yard field goal would have set a new NFL record by 4 yards had it occurred during the regular season. Justin Tucker currently holds the record with a 66-yard field goal set in 2021. The kick had enough distance to be good from 3 or 4 yards longer, showcasing Little's exceptional leg strength and accuracy.

Little's Rookie Performance

Selected in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft from Arkansas, Little had an outstanding rookie season, making 27 of 29 field goal attempts. He also made five of his six attempts from 50 or more yards, including a career-long of 59 yards. His performance has solidified his reputation as a reliable and powerful kicker.

Future Prospects

Little's holder, Logan Cooke, and special teams coordinator, Heath Farwell, have both praised his abilities. Cooke noted that Little's power comes from his fundamentals, mobility, flexibility, and core strength, rather than sheer physical size. Farwell highlighted Little's maturity and the support he receives from his teammates, likening them to his 'big brothers.'

The Pressure to Perform

Little himself believes that the bar for kickers is continually being raised, and he predicts that a 70-plus yard field goal will be made in the regular season soon. Having already achieved this feat in a preseason game, Little feels the pressure to replicate his success in a more significant setting.

Conclusion

Cam Little's 70-yard field goal has not only made history but also potentially altered the Jacksonville Jaguars' approach to the game. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Little to see if he can continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the NFL.