A football kicking tee holds the ball off the ground for kickoffs and, at some levels, for field goals and extra points. The main types are kickoff tees, which hold the ball upright or at a slight angle; field goal and extra point blocks, which are low, flat tees used with a holder; and practice tees such as adjustable and holder-free models. Which tees are legal depends on the level. In the NFL and college football, tees are allowed only on kickoffs and may raise the ball no more than one inch, and field goals are kicked off the ground. High school rules generally allow a tee up to two inches high for kickoffs, field goals and extra points.
This guide explains each type of tee, the rules at each level, how tee height and angle affect the kick, how to choose one, and common mistakes kickers make with tees.
Types of kicking tees
| Type | Used for | Description | Who uses it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kickoff tee (1 inch) | Kickoffs | Low cradle that holds the ball upright or slightly tilted | NFL, college and many high school kickers |
| Kickoff tee (2 inch) | Kickoffs | Taller cradle, easier to make clean contact | High school and youth kickers where legal |
| Field goal and extra point block | Field goals and PATs with a holder | Flat rubber block, often with a groove, that lifts the ball slightly | High school and youth levels |
| Adjustable tee | Practice | Height or angle can be changed | Kickers working on technique |
| Holder-free practice tee | Practice | Holds the ball in a field goal position without a holder | Kickers practising alone |
Rules at each level
Rules on tees change by level, so kickers should check the rulebook for their competition.
- NFL: tees are used only for kickoffs and may not raise the ball more than one inch off the ground. Field goals and extra points are kicked from the ground with a holder.
- College (NCAA): similar to the NFL. A tee of up to one inch is allowed on kickoffs; field goals and extra points are kicked off the ground.
- High school (NFHS): a tee raising the ball up to two inches is allowed for kickoffs, field goals and extra points.
- Youth leagues: rules vary widely, and some leagues remove kickoffs entirely for safety.
Always check the current NFL, NCAA, NFHS or league rulebook for exact tee specifications, as rules can change between seasons.
How tee height affects the kick
A taller tee makes it easier to strike the ball cleanly because the kicker has more room to get their foot under the sweet spot. That usually helps with height and consistency, particularly for younger kickers. A lower tee requires more precise contact but is closer to what kickers use at higher levels. Many high school kickers who hope to play in college practise with one-inch tees and ground kicks to prepare for the transition.
How ball angle affects the kick
On kickoffs, kickers set the ball at different angles depending on the kick they want. A ball set upright tends to produce a high, deep kick. A ball tilted back toward the kicker can help drive the ball further and lower, while a ball tilted forward can produce a lower, line-drive trajectory. Squib kicks and onside kicks often use different ball positions entirely. Experimenting in practice helps kickers find what works for their leg.
How to choose a kicking tee
- Check your level’s rules: make sure the tee height is legal for your games.
- Match the tee to the kick: kickoff tees for kickoffs, low blocks for field goals where allowed.
- Consider your experience: beginners often benefit from a two-inch tee, while advanced kickers prepare for one-inch tees and ground kicks.
- Look at durability: quality rubber or plastic tees last longer and hold the ball more securely.
- Consider practice tees: holder-free tees let you practise without a teammate.
Setting up the tee
For kickoffs, place the tee on the kickoff line and set the ball with the laces facing away from where your foot will strike. Check that the ball is secure and at your preferred angle. For field goals at levels that allow a block, the holder places the block at the spot, catches the snap and places the ball on the block with the laces turned away from the kicker. The kicker should practise with the same tee used in games to build consistency.
Common mistakes
- Using an illegal tee: a tee that is too tall for your level can result in a penalty.
- Relying only on a two-inch tee: makes the transition to college harder for aspiring kickers.
- Inconsistent ball placement: changes in angle lead to inconsistent kicks.
- Kicking the laces: contacting the laces can cause the ball to wobble or veer.
- Neglecting ground kicks: kickers who want to play at higher levels must practise without a tee.
Kicking off the ground: preparing for the next level
High school kickers who hope to play in college need to become comfortable kicking field goals and extra points without a tee, since college and professional rules do not allow tees on those kicks. Start by practising short kicks from a holder on grass or turf, focusing on a consistent plant foot and striking slightly lower on the ball than you would off a block. Ground kicks usually launch at a lower trajectory at first, so work on getting under the ball with a smooth follow-through. Many kickers split practice time between tee work for games and ground work for development.
Caring for kicking tees
Rubber and plastic tees wear out over time, especially on turf and in cold weather. Check for cracks, warped cradles or worn bases before each season, and replace tees that no longer hold the ball steadily. Keep a spare in your bag, since a tee that tips the ball can lead to a poor kick or a delay-of-game situation.
Choosing a tee by kick type
A one-inch tee suits kickers practising for college-style kickoffs, while a two-inch tee helps younger kickers get clean contact. For squib and onside kicks, many kickers lay the ball on its side or tilt it heavily, so a tee that allows different angles is useful. Practise every kick type with the same tee you use in games.
Frequently asked questions
Can NFL kickers use a tee for field goals?
No. NFL and college kickers kick field goals and extra points from the ground with a holder.
How tall can a kicking tee be in high school?
Under NFHS rules, a tee can raise the ball up to two inches for kickoffs, field goals and extra points.
What is the best tee for beginners?
A two-inch kickoff tee, if legal in your league, makes clean contact easier while you learn technique.
