Preseason NFL games often fly under the radar, typically not delivering the high-stakes drama fans crave. However, Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey turned heads and raised eyebrows during the Cowboys' 27-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.
In a memorable moment, Aubrey smashed a remarkable 66-yard field goal, setting a new standard for extraordinary preseason performances and tying the NFL overall record set by Justin Tucker in 2021. Tucker’s record-setting kick came during a high-pressure situation, sealing a 19-17 win for the Baltimore Ravens over the Detroit Lions, adding to the significance of his achievement.
While preseason stats don't count in the NFL's official record book, Aubrey’s 66-yard field goal is noteworthy. It surpasses the previous preseason record held by Ola Kimrin, who booted a 65-yard field goal in 2002 as part of the Denver Broncos' training camp. Kimrin played only five career regular-season games in the NFL with Washington in 2004 and had a 60% success rate on field goals, including a miss from beyond 50 yards.
The NFL's evolution in field goal kicking is evident, with only four field goals in history having soared beyond the 60-yard mark before Kimrin's 65-yarder. By comparison, from 2003 to 2023, the NFL saw a total of 29 successful field goals from 60 yards or more in regular-season play. This trend underscores the increasing skill and range of modern kickers.
Only Tucker and Aubrey have managed to surpass Kimrin’s 65-yard record, making Aubrey's preseason achievement particularly impressive. According to NFL's Next Gen Stats, Aubrey’s 66-yarder would have been good from 72 yards, highlighting his potential to redefine expectations for kickers.
Aubrey himself has confidently noted that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice, suggesting that the Cowboys might have found a kicker capable of game-changing moments. As the preseason winds down and the regular season approaches, the Cowboys' special teams unit appears poised for potential landmark performances.
In the broader context, accomplishments like Aubrey's underscore the evolving nature of the kicking game in the NFL. The boundary-pushing kicks of the past now serve as stepping stones for today’s athletes, while the advancements in training and skill development continue to push the limits of what’s possible on the field.
Ultimately, while Aubrey’s 66-yard field goal may not be enshrined in the official record books, it stands as a testament to the impressive feats achieved during this often-overlooked part of the NFL season. The Dallas Cowboys, with Aubrey at the helm of their kicking game, have given fans and analysts alike a reason to watch the preseason with renewed interest.