Eagles DC Vic Fangio Criticizes Long NFL Field Goals, Suggests Asterisks

What's Happening?

Philadelphia Eagles Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio has expressed concerns over the recent trend of long field goals in the NFL, likening them to the Steroid Era home runs in Major League Baseball. This comparison comes in light of a new rule for the 2025 season that allows NFL kickers to break in the footballs they will use during games throughout the week, rather than just on game day. This change has led to a surge in long field goals, with two of the five longest in NFL history being made this year. Notably, Tampa Bay's Chase McLaughlin and Dallas' Brandon Aubrey have kicked 65 and 64-yard field goals, respectively. Despite Fangio's criticism, the Eagles were among the teams that voted in favor of this rule change.

Why It's Important?

The ability to kick longer field goals could significantly impact game strategies and outcomes in the NFL. Teams may now rely more heavily on their kickers in critical situations, potentially altering the dynamics of close games. This development could also influence how teams evaluate and draft kickers, placing a premium on those with the ability to make long-distance kicks. However, Fangio's call for asterisks suggests a concern that these achievements may not be entirely fair or reflective of a player's skill, echoing debates from baseball's Steroid Era. This could lead to discussions about the integrity of records and the fairness of the game.

What's Next?

As the season progresses, it will be important to monitor how this rule change affects game outcomes and whether it leads to further adjustments in NFL regulations. Stakeholders, including team management and the league, may need to reassess the rule if it is perceived to undermine the sport's competitive balance. Additionally, fan and media reactions could influence future decisions regarding the rule's permanence.