In a breathtaking display of skill and poise, Minnesota Vikings rookie kicker Will Reichard etched his name into NFL history during a thrilling matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. In just one minute and 47 seconds, the Vikings transformed a solid 17-3 lead into a commanding 34-3 halftime advantage, punctuated by Reichard’s jaw-dropping 62-yard field goal as the second-quarter clock expired. This franchise-record-breaking kick not only sealed a dominant half for Minnesota but also secured Reichard’s place among the NFL’s elite long-range kickers.
Reichard’s 62-yarder shattered the Vikings’ previous record, a 61-yard field goal by Greg Joseph in 2022. Before Joseph’s mark, the team’s longest kicks stood at 56 yards, a distance reached by Joseph (2022), Blair Walsh (2012), and Paul Edinger (2005). The rookie’s historic boot now stands as the fifth-longest field goal in NFL history, tying him with an elite group of kickers including Matt Prater (who has two 62-yarders), Harrison Butker, Brett Maher (with two), Stephen Gostkowski, and Matt Bryant.
The NFL’s record for the longest field goal remains with Baltimore Ravens legend Justin Tucker, who drilled a 66-yarder in 2021. While no kicker has ever made a 65-yard attempt, the 64-yard mark has been reached by Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey (twice) and Matt Prater. The 63-yard club is equally exclusive, with seven kickers—Joey Slye (2024), Brett Maher (2019), Graham Gano (2018), David Akers (2012), Sebastian Janikowski (2011), Jason Elam (1998), and Tom Dempsey (1970)—having achieved the feat.
Reichard, however, is no stranger to long-distance heroics. In Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons, he confidently nailed a 51-yard field goal, and in Week 1 at Soldier Field, he connected on a 59-yarder. His consistent leg strength and unflappable demeanor have quickly made him a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the Vikings’ special teams.
The record-setting moment came as the Vikings unleashed a relentless offensive onslaught in the final two minutes of the first half, leaving the Bengals reeling. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor, speaking to CBS Sports’ Tracy Wolfson at halftime, acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying, “We got a lot of pride to play for right now.” For Minnesota, Reichard’s kick was more than just three points—it was a statement.
As the NFL world buzzes about this electrifying performance, Reichard’s 62-yard masterpiece will be remembered as a defining moment in Vikings history and a testament to the rookie’s limitless potential. With his name now alongside the game’s greatest kickers, Will Reichard has announced his arrival in spectacular fashion, proving that even the longest shots are within his reach.