Matt Prater

Player Information

Matthew Phillip Prater (born August 10, 1984) is an American professional football placekicker for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League (NFL). Regarded as one of the best long-distance kickers in NFL history, he held the NFL record for longest field goal (64 yards) from 2013 until 2021 and holds the NFL record for most 50+ yard field goals in a career with 82. He played college football for the UCF Knights and was originally signed by the Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2006. Throughout his career, Prater has consistently shown exceptional skill and power, making him a valuable asset to all teams he has played for.
Full Name :
Matthew Phillip Prater
Birthdate :
10 August 1984
Birthplace :
Mayfield Heights, Ohio, USA
Gender :
Male
Height (cm) :
178
Weight (kg) :
79
Nationality :
United States
Education :
Estero High School (High School), UCF (College)
Career Started :
2006
Notable Achievements :
Second-team All-Pro (2013), 2× Pro Bowl (2013, 2016), Second-team All-American (2003), ESPN Sport Science Newton Award (2014)
Current Team :
Buffalo Bills
Previous Teams :
Detroit Lions (From 2006, To 2006), Miami Dolphins (From 2007, To 2007), Atlanta Falcons (From 2007, To 2007), Denver Broncos (From 2007, To 2014), Detroit Lions (From 2014, To 2020), Arizona Cardinals (From 2021, To 2024), Buffalo Bills (From 2025, To Present)
Drafted :
2006
Drafted by :
Detroit Lions
Active Status :
From - 2006, To - Present

Biography

Matt Prater is an accomplished NFL kicker who began his career in 2007. He has played for several teams, including the Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, and Detroit Lions. Prater is notable for his two Pro Bowl selections and a remarkable record for the longest field goal at 64 yards. His consistency is apparent, maintaining a perfect field goal percentage and extra point success rate. His path reflects dedication and resilience, inviting further exploration of his life and accomplishments.

Early Life

Matt Prater had a passion for football that began in his childhood.

He attended Estero High School in Florida, where he distinguished himself as a talented kicker. His high school success paved the way for him to play college football at the University of Central Florida, where he further refined his kicking abilities.

Prater’s dedication and talent during these formative years set a solid foundation for his future in the NFL.

Family Life

Matt Prater is a dedicated family man, married and a proud father. He values the support of his wife and children, which serves as a notable source of motivation throughout his NFL career.

Prater’s experiences as a father have profoundly shaped his perspectives on teamwork and perseverance, qualities he applies both at home and on the field. Despite the challenges that come with being a professional athlete, he prioritizes family obligations, highlighting the importance he places on maintaining a strong family life while pursuing his passion for football.

Career

Matt Prater began his NFL career in 2007 with the Atlanta Falcons and has since made notable contributions while playing for the Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, and Arizona Cardinals.

Throughout his career, he has successfully converted 254 field goals out of 407 attempts, resulting in a career field goal percentage of approximately 62.4%.

Prater is a two-time Pro Bowl selection and is best known for holding the record for the longest field goal in NFL history, a remarkable 64 yards, achieved in 2013 while with the Denver Broncos.

As of the 2024 season, he has maintained a perfect field goal percentage and extra point success rate, demonstrating his reliability and skill as a kicker in the league.

Net Worth

As of 2023, Matt Prater’s net worth is estimated at $10 million, primarily from his NFL career as a kicker.

Throughout his 17 seasons in the league, he has earned approximately $30 million in total salary. Notable salaries from his career include $3.5 million during his time with the Denver Broncos, $4 million with the Detroit Lions, $3.25 million from the Arizona Cardinals, $2.75 million while with the Lions, and $2 million from his initial contract with the Broncos.

Prater’s financial success is further improved by endorsements and his reputation as one of the league’s most reliable kickers, recognized for his impressive field goal percentage and numerous records for field goals made.