Brandon Aubrey, a kicker for the Dallas Cowboys, etched his name into NFL history by setting an impressive record during the 2024 season. While the Cowboys’ special teams have often been a crucial part of their success, Aubrey’s achievement stands as a testament to his skill, consistency, and impact on the game. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of Aubrey’s record-setting moment, how it reflects his journey in the NFL, and what it means for the Dallas Cowboys and their playoff aspirations.
A Record-Breaking Kick
In Week 15 of the 2024 season, Brandon Aubrey achieved a feat no other NFL kicker had accomplished before. He set the NFL record for the most consecutive field goals made without a miss, surpassing the previous record held by some of the greatest kickers in the league’s history. Aubrey’s streak stretched into the high twenties, a remarkable achievement for a position often underappreciated despite its crucial role in determining the outcome of close games.
The kick that solidified the record came in the third quarter of the Cowboys’ game against the Philadelphia Eagles, a bitter NFC East rivalry matchup. With the score tied at 14 and the Cowboys facing a crucial fourth down, Aubrey was called on to give his team the lead. The pressure was immense, but Aubrey calmly nailed a 42-yard field goal to push his streak to 28 consecutive successful kicks, breaking the previous record of 27.
A Journey of Perseverance
Brandon Aubrey’s road to the NFL was anything but conventional. Unlike many NFL kickers who come from a football background, Aubrey’s journey began as a soccer player. He played for the University of Notre Dame’s soccer team before switching to football in 2017. His transition from soccer to football wasn’t immediate, and his time as a kicker in the NFL was hard-earned. He spent time in various developmental leagues, including the Alliance of American Football (AAF), where he first gained recognition for his kicking ability.
After honing his craft in these alternative leagues, Aubrey’s success caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to an opportunity with the Cowboys in 2023. The team had struggled with consistency at the kicker position since the departure of their longtime kicker, Brett Maher, and Aubrey was brought in to provide stability.
Aubrey’s ability to consistently make kicks from long distances and in high-pressure situations quickly earned him the confidence of Cowboys’ head coach Mike McCarthy and special teams coordinator John Fassel. By the time the 2024 season arrived, Aubrey was not only the starting kicker for the Cowboys but was performing at an elite level, proving that his soccer background had given him an edge in his transition to the NFL. His mental toughness, combined with his technique, allowed him to excel in the NFL, where kickers often face the harshest scrutiny.
The Importance of Special Teams
The role of a kicker may sometimes seem less glamorous than that of a quarterback or running back, but in many ways, a kicker’s performance is just as crucial to a team’s success. In games that are often decided by just a few points, kickers have the ability to change the course of a game with a single kick. Whether it’s making an extra point, converting a field goal in the final moments, or scoring during critical situations, the kicker’s job is always under pressure.
For the Cowboys, Aubrey’s contributions in 2024 have been pivotal in several close games. His record-breaking streak and his ability to consistently put points on the board have provided stability in a unit that has had its share of ups and downs over the years. As the Cowboys continue to push for a deep playoff run, Aubrey’s record and his steady play on special teams will be an integral part of their championship hopes.
Impact on the Dallas Cowboys’ Playoff Push
The Cowboys entered the 2024 season with high expectations, boasting a strong defense and an explosive offense led by quarterback Dak Prescott. However, one of the critical areas that often go unnoticed in championship runs is special teams. While much of the spotlight goes to star players like Prescott, running back Tony Pollard, or wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, Aubrey’s consistency in the kicking game has helped keep the Cowboys in games, especially in tight matchups.
Aubrey’s ability to score from anywhere within range, particularly his leg strength on longer field goals, has helped the Cowboys maintain a balanced approach to scoring. Whether the offense stalls in the red zone or the defense needs a break, Aubrey has been there to put points on the board, often when they matter most. His 2024 record shows not just a moment of individual brilliance, but also how crucial special teams can be in close games, and it positions the Cowboys as legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
With the playoffs on the horizon, every point matters. Aubrey’s precision could prove invaluable in critical games where field goals decide the outcome. If the Cowboys reach the postseason, Aubrey will likely be called upon to deliver clutch kicks in tense, high-pressure moments.
Breaking the Stigma of the Kicker Position
While the NFL has seen great kickers in the past, such as Adam Vinatieri, Justin Tucker, and Stephen Gostkowski, kickers are sometimes not given the same level of recognition as players in other positions. Aubrey’s record highlights the importance of the kicker’s role in modern football. Kickers may not get the same attention as star quarterbacks, but in many ways, their mental toughness and consistency are just as valuable.
In a sport that demands excellence in every aspect of the game, a kicker’s ability to make a clutch field goal can change the outcome of a season. Aubrey’s achievement will undoubtedly elevate his status among the NFL’s elite kickers and may even inspire future players to follow in his footsteps. In this way, Aubrey’s record extends beyond just a personal milestone—it’s a win for kickers everywhere, proving that their contribution to the game is often the difference between victory and defeat.
The Future of Brandon Aubrey
Looking ahead, Aubrey’s future in the NFL seems bright. Having proven himself as one of the most reliable kickers in the league, he will likely continue to be a key figure for the Cowboys in the years to come. His consistency and ability to perform in high-pressure situations are attributes that will serve him well in the league’s ever-changing landscape.
While the Cowboys’ ultimate goal remains a Super Bowl title, Aubrey’s individual achievement cannot be understated. Records like his inspire not only current players but also aspiring kickers, showing that hard work and dedication can turn a player from an unknown entity to a record-breaker.
