In the often-overlooked landscape of preseason NFL games, a moment of extraordinary athleticism recently captured the attention of football enthusiasts nationwide. Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey stunned spectators by nailing a breathtaking 66-yard field goal during the Cowboys' 27-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. This remarkable feat, while occurring in a preseason setting, has catapulted Aubrey into the annals of NFL history, drawing parallels to the league’s most storied kickers.
Setting a New Benchmark
Aubrey's 66-yarder is not just astonishing because of its sheer distance, but also because it matches the NFL's overall record set by Justin Tucker in a 2021 regular-season game. Tucker’s kick was a high-pressure, game-winning boot that secured a 19-17 victory for the Baltimore Ravens over the Detroit Lions. Although preseason stats don't officially count in the NFL’s record book, Aubrey's achievement still sets a new standard for what is possible before the stakes rise in regular-season play.
Challenging Historical Records
Prior to Aubrey’s sensational kick, the preseason benchmark was held by Ola Kimrin, who nailed a 65-yard field goal in 2002 while participating in the Denver Broncos' training camp. Kimrin's record had stood for over two decades, and unlike the momentous kicks in regular-season games, his impressive feat did not translate into a prolonged NFL career. Kimrin played only five regular-season games in his career, all with Washington in 2004, making just 60% of his field-goal attempts, with a miss from beyond 50 yards.
Pushing the Limits
Aubrey's success underscores the evolving prowess of kickers in the NFL, reflecting a trend where kickers consistently push the boundaries of distance and accuracy. Statistics support this notion, as the NFL has seen 29 successful field goals from 60 yards or more between 2003 and 2023 during regular-season play. However, only Tucker and Aubrey have managed to convert kicks longer than Kimrin’s 65-yarder, making their achievements rarified air in both preseason and regular-season contexts.
NFL's Next Gen Stats further highlight the magnitude of Aubrey's kick, indicating that his 66-yarder would have been good from an astounding 72 yards. Aubrey himself has confidently stated that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice, hinting that there may be even more awe-inspiring feats in his future.
The Road Ahead
As the preseason winds down and the regular season looms, the Dallas Cowboys appear to have discovered a kicker with the potential for game-altering moments. Aubrey's recent performance not only boosts his confidence but also builds excitement among Cowboys fans eager for thrilling, high-stakes football as the season progresses.