Preseason NFL games typically don't draw much attention, as they lack the high-stakes drama of regular-season showdowns. Yet, Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey has managed to disrupt that narrative with an extraordinary display of talent. During the Cowboys' 27-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, Aubrey made headlines by nailing a remarkable 66-yard field goal.
Record-Tying Achievement
Aubrey’s impressive 66-yard field goal has not only set a new standard for preseason performances but also tied the NFL's overall record. The record was initially set by Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens during a crucial moment in the 2021 season. Tucker's 66-yarder secured a 19-17 win for the Ravens over the Detroit Lions, capping off a game-winning effort under immense pressure.
A New Benchmark in Preseason
The previous preseason record for the longest field goal stood for over two decades. Ola Kimrin set the benchmark in 2002 with a 65-yard field goal while he was a part of the Denver Broncos' training camp. Despite his moment of glory, Kimrin's NFL career was short-lived. He played only five regular-season games with Washington in 2004, finishing with a 60% field goal success rate, including a miss from beyond 50 yards.
Aubrey’s achievement eclipses Kimrin’s long-standing record and suggests a promising future for the Cowboys’ kicking game. NFL's Next Gen Stats reveal that Aubrey’s kick could have been good from an astonishing 72 yards. This is hardly surprising, given that Aubrey himself has confidently noted, "I have successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice."
A New Era for Long-Range Kicking
Over the past two decades, field goals of 60 yards or more have become more common. From 2003 to 2023, the NFL witnessed a total of 29 successful field goals from beyond the 60-yard mark in regular-season play. Among these, only Tucker and Aubrey have managed to surpass Kimrin's 65-yarder, whether in preseason or regular-season action.
Aubrey’s performance is not merely an isolated incident but part of a broader trend of kickers pushing the boundaries of what is possible. As the preseason winds down and the regular season approaches, the Dallas Cowboys appear to have landed a kicker capable of delivering game-changing moments. The ability to consistently make long-range kicks could prove to be a pivotal asset in clutch situations, providing the Cowboys with a new weapon in their quest for success.
While preseason stats don't count in the NFL's official record book, the significance of Aubrey’s feat should not be overlooked. His 66-yard field goal has elevated the level of excitement and anticipation, proving that even preseason games can offer moments of extraordinary talent and skill. As fans gear up for the regular season, all eyes will be on Aubrey to see if he can replicate his preseason heroics when the stakes are higher.
The Dallas Cowboys may have more than just a reliable kicker in Brandon Aubrey; they could very well have a game-changer capable of rewriting the history books. As the new season unfolds, Aubrey’s record-tying kick will serve as a reminder of the extraordinary potential that exists within the often-overlooked realm of preseason play.