The often uncelebrated arena of preseason NFL games rarely delivers the heart-thumping drama that fans live for. Yet, on a recent evening, Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey managed to elevate the narrative in a spectacular fashion. During the Cowboys' commanding 27-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, Aubrey astounded spectators by nailing a monstrous 66-yard field goal, etching his name into the annals of NFL preseason history.
This remarkable feat not only set a new benchmark for exceptional preseason performances but also tied the overall NFL record set by the Baltimore Ravens' Justin Tucker in 2021. Tucker’s legendary kick, executed in a high-pressure situation, sealed a narrow 19-17 win over the Detroit Lions. While Tucker's achievement came at the height of regular-season tension, Aubrey showcased his exceptional talent in a game where the stakes were ostensibly lower, but the significance was no less monumental.
Before Aubrey's incredible feat, the record for the longest preseason field goal was held by Ola Kimrin. In 2002, while attending the Denver Broncos' training camp, Kimrin set the bar with a 65-yard kick. However, despite his extraordinary preseason accomplishment, Kimrin's NFL career was brief. He played only five regular-season games with Washington in 2004, achieving a 60% success rate on field goals and missing when it mattered from beyond 50 yards.
Until recently, only four field goals had surpassed the 60-yard mark in NFL history before Kimrin’s landmark kick. Between 2003 and 2023, regular-season play witnessed a surge, with 29 successful field goals from 60 yards or more. Even in this era of long-distance feats, only Tucker and Aubrey have shattered Kimrin's 65-yarder, making their accomplishments truly stand out in both preseason and regular-season contexts.
Aim Beyond Perfection
The tale of Aubrey's 66-yarder doesn’t just end with its execution; it also serves as a testament to the kicker's incredible potential. NFL's Next Gen Stats indicated that Aubrey’s miraculous kick would have been good from an astonishing 72 yards. This revelation from advanced metrics amplifies the magnitude of Aubrey’s leg strength and precision, qualities that are undoubtedly rare and precious in the dynamic world of professional football. In his own words, "Aubrey himself has confidently noted that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice."
Such consistency and confidence in practice often translate into pivotal game-changing moments. The Dallas Cowboys, an organization steeped in history and high expectations, may have found their kicking phenom capable of clutch performances during the regular season. Aubrey's prowess adds a new dimension to the Cowboys' game plan, offering a reliable option for scoring from seemingly impossible distances.
Preseason statistics might not find their way into the NFL's official record book, but they do serve a fundamental purpose. They provide a proving ground for players to showcase their talents and make a case for their inclusion in the regular season lineup. Aubrey’s performance is a sterling example of how preseason opportunities can be leveraged to create unforgettable moments and earn a place in mainstream recognition.
The Path Forward
As the NFL preseason winds down, all eyes are now on how players like Brandon Aubrey will perform when the regular season kicks into gear. The transition from preseason star to regular-season reliable is fraught with challenges, but Aubrey's 66-yard marvel suggests he is more than ready to meet them head-on. His ability to deliver under pressure could prove invaluable for the Cowboys as they navigate the grueling NFL schedule.
In the grand tapestry of NFL stories, moments like Aubrey's 66-yard field goal underscore the unpredictable nature of the sport and remind us why we watch. They serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the extraordinary feats athletes can achieve, even when the official spotlight isn't shining the brightest. Brandon Aubrey's kick may be a preseason highlight, but it casts a long shadow of promise for what lies ahead.