The NFL playoffs are always a time when every detail matters, and one of the most significant details often gets overlooked until it’s too late: the kicker. In Bengals season where 152 NFL games were decided by one possession — the second-most this millennium — the pressure on kickers has never been higher. Every single extra point, field goal, and potential game-winner could tilt a team’s fate, especially when considering the razor-thin margins that define playoff games.
The 2025 playoffs are shaping up to be a nail-biting spectacle, and the kickers who will be taking the field are under immense pressure to perform. In a season where small margins loomed large, with teams like the Bengals falling short with a 4-7 record in one-score games, the importance of having a reliable, clutch kicker is amplified. A miss in a critical moment could be the difference between advancing or going home. With that in mind, let’s rank each team’s kicker heading into the postseason, where those small details — those kicks — will be under the spotlight more than ever.
At the very top of the list, there is no debate. Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens remains the undisputed No. 1 kicker heading into the playoffs. Tucker has been the gold standard for years, his accuracy, leg strength, and calm under pressure making him one of the most reliable players in the league, regardless of position. His ability to connect on clutch field goals, even from long distances, is unmatched, and his consistency in high-pressure situations has made him synonymous with reliability. Throughout the season, Tucker has continued to deliver in critical moments, cementing his place as the premier kicker in the NFL. He’s a weapon for the Ravens, and his presence on the field gives them a distinct advantage in tight games.
However, despite his legendary status, it’s hard to ignore the fact that Justin Tucker’s 2025 season hasn’t been without its blemishes. While he’s still among the very best, he has experienced a few more hiccups this year than in seasons past. Some missed kicks in games that could have made a significant difference in seizing momentum and securing victories have raised eyebrows. Still, even with a couple of misses in the regular season, Tucker’s reputation and overall performance in big moments ensure that he remains at the top of the rankings, even if a slight decline is noticeable.
Sliding into the second spot is Evan McPherson of the Cincinnati Bengals. McPherson, often referred to as “Money Mac,” has built a reputation as one of the most reliable young kickers in the league. His calm demeanor and unshakable confidence have made him a go-to option in the clutch, especially after his remarkable postseason run during the Bengals’ Super Bowl appearance a couple of years ago. McPherson has continued to show poise under pressure, and in a season with so many close games, his reliability has been a key factor for the Bengals. His ability to drill long-range field goals and come through in the final moments will undoubtedly be a major asset as Cincinnati pushes for a playoff run.
Next, we have a kicker whose success comes down to his versatility and steady performance: Harrison Butker of the Kansas City Chiefs. Butker has been a key contributor to the Chiefs’ success for several years, and 2025 has been no exception. Known for his leg strength and ability to connect from long distances, Butker is also dependable in clutch situations, with several game-winners to his name. In a season where the Chiefs’ offense has continued to be potent, Butker has provided the necessary stability on special teams. Whether it’s hitting extra points or converting critical field goals, Butker has been a consistent force for Kansas City, making him one of the most trusted kickers heading into the playoffs.
Fourth on the list is Brett Maher of the Dallas Cowboys, who has emerged as a reliable option for Dallas this season. Maher has long been known for his ability to hit long field goals, but his consistency has taken another step forward in 2025. His leg strength and ability to come through in tight situations have made him a trusted option in the Cowboys’ high-pressure games. While Maher has missed a few kicks this year, he’s been able to bounce back, displaying resilience and mental fortitude — two characteristics every playoff-bound kicker needs. In a team like Dallas, where postseason aspirations are high, Maher’s ability to make the big kick when needed will be critical.
Fifth is Daniel Carlson of the Las Vegas Raiders, who has quietly put together another strong season. Carlson’s consistency from all ranges has earned him a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable kickers. He’s accurate and has displayed confidence in clutch moments, although his profile is often overshadowed by more high-profile kickers. Nevertheless, Carlson has been rock solid for the Raiders and will be crucial to their success in tight playoff matchups.
The middle of the pack brings us to a kicker who, despite showing a lot of promise, has struggled with consistency in certain situations: Younghoe Koo of the Atlanta Falcons. Koo has a solid leg and the ability to hit from long distances, but he has missed a few kicks in critical moments this season. While he’s been dependable for most of the year, his inconsistencies at key junctures have caused some concern. Nonetheless, Koo is still a solid kicker, and his potential to deliver in the clutch makes him a wildcard in the postseason.
A notable slide occurs with Matt Gay of the Los Angeles Rams, who has struggled with accuracy and consistency throughout 2025. Gay has missed several field goals, particularly in high-pressure situations, and his inability to consistently convert from medium and long-range distances has been a point of concern for the Rams. In a season where close games are the norm, Gay’s inability to deliver in the clutch could be a significant hindrance for a Rams team looking to make noise in the playoffs.
Brandon McManus of the Jacksonville Jaguars has had an up-and-down season, but his overall performance has been enough to keep him in the middle tier of kickers for the postseason. McManus has shown flashes of brilliance but has also struggled with consistency at times. While he’s been solid in some key moments, his misses have been particularly notable in close games, which may become a factor in Jacksonville’s playoff aspirations.
Finally, we have a few kickers at the lower end of the spectrum, whose performances have raised doubts about their reliability. While they can occasionally make a big kick, their inconsistency in high-pressure situations makes them liabilities for their teams when every point counts. These kickers, whether due to technical issues, mental lapses, or poor performances in critical moments, could prove to be the weak link that ultimately costs their teams in the playoffs.
As we enter the postseason, one thing is clear: the small margins that defined the 2025 NFL season will be even more pronounced in the playoffs. A single missed field goal or extra point can change the course of a game, and with 152 one-possession games this year, the pressure on kickers will be at an all-time high. Every team’s kicker will need to rise to the occasion, but as always, the best — the ones who remain calm, accurate, and clutch when it matters most — will be the ones who carry their teams to victory. In this arena of razor-thin margins, the kickers truly can make or break a season.