Brandon Aubrey: The Kicking Prodigy Making History for the Dallas Cowboys
In a remarkable 2023 NFL season, Brandon Aubrey has not only clinched the title of Dallas Cowboys' first-team All-Pro kicker but also etched his name into the annals of NFL history. Aubrey’s astonishing performances on the field have garnered widespread admiration, including from the Cowboys' head coach Mike McCarthy, who emphasized, "He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance."
A Record-Breaking Start
Week 3 became a milestone moment in Aubrey’s career. Playing against the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium, he achieved the longest field goal in Dallas Cowboys' history. His 65-yard kick not only set a franchise record but also became the second-longest field goal in NFL history. This breathtaking feat set the tone for Aubrey’s exceptional season, showcasing his extraordinary capabilities to fans and commentators alike. It’s no surprise, then, that McCarthy wishes "he were indoors" when Aubrey attempts such impressive kicks.
The 70-Yard Challenge
The aura of excitement intensified as the Cowboys approached their Week 15 game against the Carolina Panthers. Set in Charlotte, this matchup presented a daunting outdoor challenge for Aubrey. As special teams coordinator John "Bones" Fassel explained, "We said if we get anywhere in that neck of the woods, we're going to give it a big old whack." And a big whack it was, with Aubrey attempting an audacious 70-yard field goal.
The atmosphere was electric as the Cowboys positioned themselves for Aubrey’s historic kick. The sound of the impact resonated as the ball soared—a display of brute strength and technique. "Yeah, he's got 70 in him, for sure," Fassel confirmed, putting faith in Aubrey’s potential. However, the kick veered wide to the left, narrowly missing the mark. This miss carried its own risks, as Fassel candidly noted, "The worst thing that could happen is they put a returner back there, and we have to cover."
Navigating the Complexities of Long-Range Kicking
Aubrey’s attempt wasn’t just about power. The kick unfolded against a host of challenges—outdoors and into the wind. "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra," Fassel elaborated. This complex blend of skill and strategy is emblematic of what makes NFL kicking a specialized craft. As he kicked, "You see on tape, he did a little skip step, and he just tried to drive it," Fassel added.
Despite the miss, the Cowboys did not walk away empty-handed. The Panthers' Deven Thompkins returned the missed 70-yard kick for 37 yards, adding drama to the encounter. Fassel remains optimistic about future attempts, observing, "If we get in that position again, I'm sure we'll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor."
Looking Forward
With Weeks 16 and 18 set to take place at AT&T Stadium, the hope is that Aubrey’s consistency and power will continue to shine, much to the delight of the home crowd. Week 17’s away game against the Philadelphia Eagles will present yet another chance for Aubrey to demonstrate his skill under challenging conditions. Regardless of venue or situation, the Cowboys have signaled a willingness to rely on Aubrey’s formidable leg when opportunity strikes.
The spotlight remains firmly on Brandon Aubrey as the season progresses. With a blend of remarkable talent, mechanical prowess, and strategic understanding, his journey as a rookie kicker is nothing short of inspiring. As observed by figures like Mike McCarthy and John "Bones" Fassel, he represents a new era of kicking excellence, poised to keep making history one field goal at a time.