Preseason NFL games often fly under the radar, typically not delivering the high-stakes drama fans crave. Yet, every so often, a moment of sheer brilliance emerges that makes even the most dispassionate observer take notice. Such was the case with Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey, who smashed a 66-yard field goal during the Cowboys' 27-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. His jaw-dropping achievement has not only set a new standard for extraordinary preseason performances but has also brought to light the incredible potential lurking within Aubrey’s powerful leg.
The preseason record for the longest field goal was previously held by Ola Kimrin, who set a 65-yard benchmark in 2002 while part of the Denver Broncos' training camp. Kimrin’s record, which had stood for over two decades, seemed almost untouchable until Aubrey's record-tying blast electrified the preseason landscape. It’s worth noting that Kimrin ultimately played only five career regular-season games in the NFL, all with Washington in 2004, and had a 60% success rate on field goals during that brief stint. His successful 65-yarder was a diamond among otherwise modest career achievements.
Aubrey’s 66-yard field goal achievement becomes even more astounding when juxtaposed with the regular-season record. Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens set the NFL's longest field goal mark at 66 yards in 2021, in a high-pressure situation, sealing a dramatic 19-17 win for the Ravens over the Detroit Lions. “Aubrey himself has confidently noted that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice,” and such confidence and ability appear to signal that the Dallas Cowboys may have found a kicker capable of game-changing moments.
While preseason stats don't count in the NFL's official record book, Aubrey’s kick has certainly etched his name into the annals of preseason lore. NFL's Next Gen Stats have indicated that Aubrey’s 66-yarder would have been good from 72 yards. Such an estimate further underscores the prodigious talent the Cowboys have stumbled upon. Indeed, between 2003 and 2023, the NFL saw only 29 successful field goals from 60 yards or more in regular-season play. Aubrey’s ability to consistently deliver long-range kicks further distinguishes him in a league where such feats are still relatively rare.
The accomplishment couldn't come at a better time for the Cowboys, as the preseason is winding down and the regular season approaches. In a league where every point can make or break a season, the potential of having a reliable long-distance kicker could be instrumental. The Cowboys' coaching staff and fans alike will be eagerly watching to see if Aubrey’s preseason prowess translates into regular-season success.
Interestingly, prior to Aubrey's monumental kick, Kimrin's 65-yarder was the highest standard in a preseason game. But whereas Kimrin’s career afterward was largely uneventful, one hopes Aubrey's journey is just beginning to unfold. The buzz surrounding his preseason performance might very well be the springboard that launches him into NFL stardom.
It's important to reiterate the context of this achievement: preseason games often lack the tension and urgency of regular-season matchups. Yet, in what might otherwise be a series of forgettable scrimmages, moments like Aubrey’s 66-yarder remind us all of the unpredictable magic of sports and the extraordinary feats athletes are capable of accomplishing, even when the stakes are low.
The Dallas Cowboys have indeed found something special in Brandon Aubrey. Whether he will translate this early promise into consistent regular-season performance remains to be seen. But for now, his 66-yard marvel stands as a testament to his exceptional ability and a preview of the excitement he may bring to the fields of the NFL.