Preseason NFL games often fly under the radar, typically not delivering the high-stakes drama fans crave. Yet, Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey shattered this expectation with a stunning performance that sent ripples through the football world. In a remarkable display of skill, Aubrey nailed a 66-yard field goal during the Cowboys' 27-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.
While preseason stats don't count in the NFL's official record book, Aubrey’s 66-yard field goal achievement has set a new standard for extraordinary preseason performances, catching the attention of enthusiasts and analysts alike. This jaw-dropping kick tied the NFL overall record set by Justin Tucker in 2021, a mark that holds clout even among the most seasoned professionals.
Context adds depth to this achievement. Justin Tucker’s record-setting 66-yard kick wasn't just another field goal; it was a game-changer that sealed a narrow 19-17 victory for the Baltimore Ravens over the Detroit Lions. The pressure and stakes underscore the difficulty of such a feat.
Prior to Aubrey’s record-tying performance, the longest field goal in preseason history was 65 yards, set by Ola Kimrin in 2002. Kimrin, who was part of the Denver Broncos' training camp at the time, set a benchmark that stood strong for over two decades. Despite his record-setting kick, Kimrin's NFL career was short-lived; he played only five regular-season games with the Washington Football Team in 2004 and had a 60% success rate on field goals, including a miss from beyond 50 yards.
The landscape of long-range kicking has dramatically evolved since then. From 2003 to 2023, the NFL saw a total of 29 successful field goals from 60 yards or more in regular-season play. However, only Tucker and Aubrey have managed to hit a field goal longer than Kimrin's, encompassing both preseason and regular-season games.
Even more intriguing is the technical analysis of Aubrey’s unbelievable kick. According to the NFL's Next Gen Stats, the 66-yarder would have been good from 72 yards, showcasing not just power but pinpoint accuracy. Aubrey himself has confidently noted, "I have successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice." This statement underscores not just a single moment of brilliance but a sustained capability to perform under pressure.
As the preseason winds down and the regular season approaches, Aubrey's performance could have significant implications for the Dallas Cowboys. Not only does it highlight his potential as a reliable scoring option, but it also underscores his ability to deliver in game-changing moments — a quality that could prove invaluable during the grind of the NFL regular season.
In essence, while preseason games may not count towards official statistics, they offer invaluable glimpses into emerging talent and untapped potential. Brandon Aubrey’s 66-yard field goal is not just a footnote in the annals of NFL history; it’s a beacon that signifies the advent of a kicker who may redefine long-range consistency and effectiveness. The Dallas Cowboys appear to have unearthed a gem capable of making monumental contributions when it truly matters.
With this newfound confidence and a display of pure, unadulterated talent, Aubrey has undoubtedly given the Cowboys something to ponder as they prepare for the regular season. If his preseason performance is any indication, the Dallas Cowboys' special teams might have found their X-factor in Brandon Aubrey.