How a missed field goal created an unbreakable NFL record

History · Published 6 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 2007, Antonio Cromartie turned a failed 57-yard attempt by the Minnesota Vikings into the longest scoring play in NFL history. By catching the ball in the endzone and sprinting 109 yards, he achieved a feat that, due to field dimensions, can only be equaled, never broken.

Antonio Cromartie’s historic moment occurred on November 4, 2007, during a game against the Minnesota Vikings. When Vikings kicker Ryan Longwell attempted a 57-yard field goal, the kick fell short. Strategically positioned under the goalpost by special teams coordinator Steve Crosby, Cromartie leaped to prevent the ball from exiting the endzone, securing an acrobatic catch while landing with both feet in bounds.

The resulting 109-yard return for a touchdown set an NFL record for the longest scoring play. Because regulation field and endzone lengths are fixed, 109 yards represents the theoretical maximum distance possible for such a play; therefore, the record can only be equaled, not surpassed. This performance earned Cromartie the Special Teams Player of the Week honors.

The 2007 season was a breakout year for the former Florida State Seminole. After being a first-round pick for the San Diego Chargers in 2006—a 'luxury pick' following a year-long recovery from a torn ACL—Cromartie transitioned from a nickelback to a dominant force. He finished the 2007 season with 10 interceptions, setting a Chargers franchise record previously held by Charlie McNeil, who recorded nine in 1961. His performance earned him his first Pro Bowl invitation.

Cromartie's versatility was evident throughout his career. Before his NFL success, he was a standout at Tallahassee's Lincoln High School, earning the 2002 USA Today defensive player of the year. His athletic profile included high-level track and field skills, including placing 3rd in the 110-metres hurdles and clearing 14.3 meters in the triple jump.

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