Los Angeles Chargers Make NFL History with First Successful Fair Catch Kick Since 1976
Preview
Preview
The Los Angeles Chargers recently made NFL history by successfully executing a fair catch kick, marking the first time such a play has resulted in points since 1976. This rare and historic event occurred during the first half of their game against the Denver Broncos on December 19, 2024.A fair catch kick is a unique play allowed by the NFL rulebook. It can be attempted after a fair catch is made or awarded as the result of fair catch interference. The receiving team has the option to put the ball in play by a snap or a fair catch kick (either a drop kick or a place kick without a tee) from the spot of the catch or the succeeding spot after any applicable penalties. The kicker can take a running start before kicking the ball, which is different from a regular field goal where the ball is snapped.In this particular instance, Chargers kicker Cameron Dicker, under the direction of head coach Jim Harbaugh, converted a 57-yard fair catch kick. This kick, which was the longest successful fair catch kick in NFL history, occurred just before halftime and was set up by a 15-yard penalty against the Denver Broncos, giving the Chargers the ball on the Broncos' 47-yard line.The last successful fair catch kick before this event was made in 1976 by Ray Wersching of the then-San Diego Chargers, who converted a 45-yard field goal against the Buffalo Bills. This play had not been seen in nearly 50 years, making Dicker's kick a significant moment in NFL history.