Tom Dempsey’s historic 63-yard field goal on Nov. 8, 1970 pic.twitter.com/UcZNBoOw9t
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) April 5, 2020
There are 63 days left on the calendar until the New Orleans Saints kick off their 2024 regular season, which makes Tom Dempsey’s record-setting 63-yard field goal the Saints Play of the Day.
Dempsey nailed the longest field goal in NFL history against the Detroit Lions in 1970, sending the game-winner through the upright as time expired — which was one of just two victories the Saints enjoyed that season. Having been born without toes on his right foot, Dempsey used a special box-toed boot that was later banned by the league.
His kick led to multiple NFL rules changes and stood as the record for 43 years. Several kickers tied him for distance, but Dempsey’s record wasn’t broken until Denver Broncos kicker Matt Prater made good from 64 yards (taking advantage of the thin air at altitude, though in below-freezing temperatures). They were both lapped by Baltimore Ravens fan favorite Justin Tucker in 2021, when he set a new record from 66 yards.
Still, Dempsey’s place in NFL history is secure. Generations of fans knew who set that record, and for many Saints fans it was the highlight of the team’s early days. He’ll be missed, having died in 2020, but Dempsey — and his achievements as someone to cheer for when New Orleans truly needed it — won’t be forgotten.
