How many points is a field goal after a touchdown football?

If you’re asking about a “field goal after a touchdown,” what you probably mean is the kick that follows a touchdown. That kick is called the extra point (PAT) and it’s worth 1 point in modern football. A successful placekick or drop kick after a touchdown adds a single point, bringing a touchdown-plus-kick total to 7 points. Choose a two-point conversion instead and a successful play from scrimmage adds 2 points, making the total 8.

Why “field goal” and “extra point” are not the same

A field goal during regular play is worth 3 points and is attempted from scrimmage at any point in the drive. The kick that follows a touchdown is governed by conversion rules — not field-goal rules — so you won’t get 3 points from a post-touchdown kick. Think of it this way: touchdown = 6, then the conversion attempt determines whether you finish at 7 (kick) or 8 (two-point attempt).

Little-known rules and rare scenarios that flip the scoreboard

  • Drop kicks: Rare but legal. A successful drop kick on an extra point counts the same as a placekick — 1 point.
  • Defensive returns: In college and the NFL, if the defense returns a failed conversion to the opposite end zone, the defense scores 2 points. That can swing momentum in a heartbeat.
  • Rule changes: The NFL moved the extra-point kick back in 2015 to make the one-point attempt more challenging, which led teams to weigh two-point attempts more often.

Real-game math — examples that make it simple

  • Touchdown + successful PAT kick = 6 + 1 = 7 points.
  • Touchdown + successful two-point attempt = 6 + 2 = 8 points.
  • Field goal during play = 3 points (separate situation, not a post-touchdown kick).

Where this matters for bettors and fans — quick strategy edge

Knowing the distinction matters for game totals, player prop markets, and live betting. Betting markets can move when a team is deciding between a kick or a two-point try late in the game. Look for odds on conversion attempts, final scores, and player-specific props tied to scoring plays. Check current bonuses and promotions for boosted odds and conversion-related props while they’re available — offers like that don’t last forever.

Understanding these scoring rules gives you a clearer view of strategy on the field and smarter choices when placing wagers or following a tight game. Keep that scorebook mindset handy next time a coach lines up for the conversion — those single points can decide everything.