The spectacle and sensation of NFL preseason games often fail to capture the fervor of high-stakes, regular-season matchups. Nonetheless, a recent standout moment came when Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey shattered the existing norm by hammering home a remarkable 66-yard field goal during the Cowboys' 27-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. This staggering achievement not only captured the attention of fans but also set a fresh benchmark for extraordinary preseason performances.
Aubrey's mammoth kick tied the overall NFL record for the longest field goal, a feat first accomplished by the Baltimore Ravens' luminary kicker Justin Tucker in 2021. Tucker's game-winning kick sealed a dramatic 19-17 victory over the Detroit Lions in a high-pressure scenario, cementing his name in the annals of NFL history. Aubrey's moment might have lacked the immediate tension of a regular-season game-winning situation, yet its impact on the field and among fans is undeniable.
Background on the Record
Before Brandon Aubrey's astonishing 66-yard kick, the record for the longest field goal in an NFL preseason game was held by Ola Kimrin. Kimrin's 65-yard field goal set in 2002 with the Denver Broncos had stood as the gold standard for over two decades. Despite his record-setting performance, Kimrin's career in the NFL was brief; he played only five regular-season games with Washington in 2004, ending his professional journey with a 60% success rate on field goals, including a notable miss from beyond 50 yards.
Kimrin's record was considered unassailable until Aubrey's recent feat. However, it must be noted that even as the preseason record-holder, Kimrin couldn't etch his name among the elite in the NFL record books—reserved primarily for regular-season accomplishments. Brandon Aubrey now shares the unique distinction of having kicked a field goal longer than 65 yards, alongside the illustrious Justin Tucker.
Technical Brilliance
The role of technology and advanced metrics cannot be overstated in modern sports achievements. According to NFL's Next Gen Stats, Aubrey's 66-yarder had the strength to sail through from as far back as 72 yards, showcasing his extraordinary leg strength and precision. Aubrey himself has confidently noted that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice, underlining his prowess and potential to make game-changing contributions moving forward.
Between 2003 and 2023, NFL games witnessed a total of 29 successful field goals from 60 yards or more in regular-season play. This statistic highlights the rarity and skill required to nail such long-distance kicks, further elevating Aubrey's 66-yard preseason achievement. It stands as a testament not only to his physical capabilities but also to his mental fortitude in executing such a demanding kick.
A Glimpse Into the Future
As the preseason winds down and the regular season looms closer, the Dallas Cowboys appear to have discovered a kicker whose potential exceeds mere regularity. Brandon Aubrey's recent exploits position him as a formidable asset capable of clutch performances, reminiscent of the league's most celebrated kickers. Beyond the numbers and the length of his kicks, Aubrey's confidence and consistency in practice indicate a promising future for both the player and his team.
Such performances tend to resonate well into the regular season, providing glimpses of the kind of thrilling moments fans crave. A kicker like Aubrey, who can deliver in high-pressure situations and from extraordinary distances, significantly enhances a team's competitive edge. Whether Aubrey will continue to break records and deliver memorable moments when it truly counts remains to be seen, but the early signs are promising.
In the grand tapestry of professional football, preseason games may often seem like mere warm-ups. Yet, moments like Brandon Aubrey's 66-yard field goal serve as reminders that greatness and historical achievements can emerge at any time. This extraordinary moment not only revives the excitement of preseason but also sets the stage for what could be a remarkable NFL career.