Brandon Aubrey's Stunning 66-Yard Field Goal: A New Preseason Benchmark
Preseason NFL games often fly under the radar, typically not delivering the high-stakes drama fans crave. But every once in a while, a moment of extraordinary athletic prowess captures the spotlight and sets a new standard. Such was the case when Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey smashed a jaw-dropping 66-yard field goal during the Cowboys' 27-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.
Though preseason stats don't count in the NFL's official record book, Aubrey’s 66-yard achievement has set a remarkable benchmark for extraordinary preseason performances. This eye-catching feat tied the NFL overall record set by Justin Tucker in 2021. Unlike Aubrey, Tucker’s record-setting kick occurred during a high-pressure situation, sealing a narrow 19-17 win for the Baltimore Ravens over the Detroit Lions. Nevertheless, Aubrey’s accomplishment in a preseason game demonstrates an exceptional level of skill and potential.
Before Aubrey's historic kick, Ola Kimrin held the previous preseason record for the longest field goal with a 65-yard shot set in 2002. Kimrin set this record while participating in the Denver Broncos' training camp. Though he eventually only played five career regular-season games in the NFL, all with Washington in 2004, his preseason benchmark had stood for over two decades. Kimrin's success rate on field goals was 60%, and he notably missed an attempt from beyond 50 yards.
The significance of Aubrey’s achievement is further highlighted by the rarity of long field goals in NFL history. At the time of Kimrin's 65-yarder, only four field goals in NFL history had surpassed the 60-yard mark. Between 2003 and 2023, the league witnessed a total of 29 successful field goals from 60 yards or more in regular-season play. Yet, apart from Kimrin, only Tucker and Aubrey have managed to hit a field goal longer than 65 yards, considering both preseason and regular-season games.
NFL's Next Gen Stats offered an additional layer of awe to Aubrey’s achievement, indicating that his 66-yarder would have been good from 72 yards. Aubrey himself has confidently noted that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice, showcasing his exceptional leg strength and consistency.
The preseason is winding down as the regular season approaches, and the Dallas Cowboys may have found a kicker capable of creating game-changing moments. Aubrey’s performance not only adds excitement to the often-overlooked preseason but also sets the stage for what fans and analysts alike hope will be a thrilling regular season.
In a sport where kickers can make the difference between victory and defeat, Brandon Aubrey’s 66-yard field goal is a testament to his talent and promise. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the young kicker to see if he can replicate his preseason success when the stakes are unquestionably higher.