Preseason NFL games might not garner the same attention and drama as their regular-season counterparts, but every so often, a standout moment emerges, captivating fans and leaving its mark on the sport's history. Such was the case during the Dallas Cowboys' recent 27-12 triumph over the Las Vegas Raiders, where kicker Brandon Aubrey etched his name into the annals of football lore with a remarkable 66-yard field goal.
Aubrey's phenomenal kick tied the overall NFL record for the longest successful field goal, a record set by Baltimore Ravens' Justin Tucker in 2021. While Tucker's historic kick came under pressure to secure a 19-17 victory against the Detroit Lions, Aubrey's achievement, although in the relative serenity of a preseason game, nonetheless set a new benchmark for excellence in these often-overlooked matches.
Before Aubrey, Ola Kimrin held the preseason record for the longest field goal with his 65-yard kick during the Denver Broncos' training camp in 2002. Despite this memorable achievement, Kimrin's NFL career was relatively brief, featuring only five regular-season games with Washington in 2004, where he managed a 60% success rate on field goals, including a miss from beyond 50 yards.
The significance of Aubrey's 66-yarder cannot be understated. According to NFL's Next Gen Stats, the kick would have likely been good from an astounding 72 yards. Aubrey himself confidently noted that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice. Such feats highlight the extraordinary talent and potential of the Cowboys' kicker, suggesting that Dallas may have found a player capable of delivering game-changing moments when the stakes are high.
The rarity of Aubrey's accomplishment is underscored by the limited number of successful long-distance field goals. Between 2003 and 2023, the NFL saw only 29 field goals from 60 yards or more in regular-season play. Of the few who have surpassed Kimrin's 65-yarder, only Tucker and Aubrey have managed to kick a longer field goal, factoring in both preseason and regular-season games. This statistic underscores the exceptional nature of Aubrey's kick and its place in football history.
As the preseason winds down and the regular season looms, the Dallas Cowboys and their fans have reason to be optimistic. With a kicker like Brandon Aubrey capable of such spectacular achievements, the team has added a valuable asset to their roster. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver from long distances could prove instrumental as the Cowboys navigate the challenges of the forthcoming season.
In a sport where the margin of victory can often come down to a single play, having a reliable kicker with a proven track record of success is indispensable. Aubrey's 66-yard field goal not only highlights his individual prowess but also sets an inspiring example for aspiring players and reaffirms the unpredictable excitement that even preseason football can offer.
With every successful kick, Brandon Aubrey continues to reinforce his position as a key player to watch. As the NFL community reflects on his recent feat, the anticipation builds for what the future holds. Could Aubrey one day surpass Tucker's and his own record? Only time will tell. For now, his 66-yarder serves as a testament to his skill and a beacon of potential for the Dallas Cowboys.