The preseason NFL games often drift into the periphery, overshadowed by the electrifying nature of regular-season clashes. These early matches typically lack the adrenaline and high-stakes moments that fans eagerly anticipate. However, occasional extraordinary feats can redefine the preseason narrative, adding bursts of excitement to otherwise subdued contests.
A Record-Tying Feat
Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey delivered one such moment with a sensational 66-yard field goal during the Cowboys' 27-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. Aubrey’s kick not only sealed the game but also etched his name into the annals of NFL preseason lore. Despite preseason statistics not making it into the official record books, Aubrey's achievement has nonetheless shifted the spotlight onto what can be accomplished during these games.
Remarkably, Aubrey’s 66-yarder ties the NFL overall record set by Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker in 2021. Tucker’s iconic kick came in a high-pressure scenario, securing a narrow 19-17 victory for the Ravens against the Detroit Lions. The context may differ, but the skill and precision required remain unchanged. Breaking barriers in any setting is no small feat.
A New Preseason Standard
Before Aubrey's remarkable effort, the benchmark for the longest field goal in a preseason game was Ola Kimrin’s 65-yard field goal in 2002. Kimrin’s record had stood firm for over two decades, showcasing the rarity of such long-distance achievements. Kimrin, who was part of the Denver Broncos' training camp at the time, ultimately went on to play just five regular-season games for Washington in 2004. His career saw a 60% success rate on field goals, including some misses from beyond the 50-yard mark.
As of recent counts, only four field goals in NFL history had surpassed the 60-yard mark before Kimrin’s kick, making any successful attempt from that distance a considerably rare occurrence. Between 2003 and 2023, the NFL witnessed 29 successful field goals from 60 or more yards during regular-season play. Among these, only Tucker and Aubrey have managed to surpass Kimrin’s preseason record, an indication of the elite company in which Aubrey now finds himself.
Aubrey's performance has undoubtedly ushered in a new standard for what is possible in preseason games. His ability to deliver under such conditions speaks volumes about his potential as a game-changing asset for the Dallas Cowboys.
Next Gen Insights
Delving deeper into the analytics, NFL's Next Gen Stats indicated that Aubrey’s 66-yarder had the capacity to extend to 72 yards. Such robust data underscores the impressive nature of the kick and hints at Aubrey's potential for future record-breaking performances. The kicker himself has previously stated, "Aubrey himself has confidently noted that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice." This self-assurance is a crucial trait for any athlete, more so for a role as pivotal as a kicker.
As the preseason winds down and the regular season approaches, the Dallas Cowboys may have found a kicker capable of altering the dynamics of tight games. Aubrey’s prowess could translate to those high-pressure moments where mere points define the narrow line between victory and defeat.