NFL Touchdown Records: Can They Be Broken?

As we approach the end of the 2024 NFL season, fans and analysts alike are turning their attention to the record books. Two particular touchdown records stand out as potentially vulnerable: Peyton Manning’s single-season passing touchdown record and Devin Hester’s career punt return touchdown mark. Let’s examine the chances of these records falling in the near future.

Manning’s Magic Number: 55 Passing Touchdowns

In 2013, Peyton Manning set the NFL world ablaze with an astounding 55 touchdown passes in a single season. This record has stood for over a decade, but with the NFL’s continued emphasis on passing offenses, it’s not unreasonable to think it could be challenged. As the excitement builds around potential record-breaking performances, fans can easily engage with the action by betting on NFL games using cryptocurrency at Mega Dice casino, adding extra thrill to the season.

Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert are two young quarterbacks who have shown the potential to approach this lofty mark. Burrow, with his pinpoint accuracy and array of talented receivers, has demonstrated the ability to put up big numbers. In 2023, he threw for 36 touchdowns in just 16 games, showing he has the skill set to potentially challenge Manning’s record.

Herbert, on the other hand, has been a touchdown machine since entering the league. He threw 31 touchdowns in his rookie season and has consistently been among the league leaders in this category. With his strong arm and improving decision-making, Herbert could make a run at 55 if everything aligns perfectly.

However, breaking this record would require an extraordinary confluence of factors. The quarterback would need to stay healthy for all 17 games, have a reliable and explosive receiving corps, and benefit from a schedule that encourages high-scoring affairs. Additionally, their team’s defense would ideally struggle enough to necessitate continued passing even in blowout situations.

Hester’s Return to Glory: 14 Punt Return Touchdowns

Shifting our focus to special teams, Devin Hester’s career record of 14 punt return touchdowns seems almost untouchable in today’s NFL. Hester, widely regarded as the greatest return specialist in NFL history, set this mark over his 11-year career from 2006 to 2016.

The challenges in breaking this record are numerous. First and foremost, rule changes aimed at player safety have made it more difficult for returners to find open lanes. The emphasis on directional punting and improved coverage units has also limited opportunities for big returns.

Moreover, the role of the return specialist has diminished in recent years. Many teams prefer to use regular offensive players in this role rather than dedicating a roster spot to a return specialist. This means fewer opportunities for any single player to accumulate return touchdowns over a career.

As of 2024, no active player is even close to Hester’s mark. The current leader among active players has just 4 punt return touchdowns, highlighting the difficulty of approaching Hester’s record. While it’s never wise to say never in sports, Hester’s record appears safe for the foreseeable future. You can stay updated on all things NFL on our podcast!