In the realm of professional football, kickers often find themselves as the overlooked members of their teams, frequently leading to dismissive attitudes about their significance. However, the Dallas Cowboys’ kicker, Brandon Aubrey, stands out as a remarkable talent, capturing the attention and admiration that few in his position have historically received. His prowess has not only elevated him to celebrity status among fans but has garnered respect from former players, like David Buehler, who recognize the rarity of his abilities. Buehler, once a promising kicker for the Cowboys himself, spoke candidly about how Aubrey’s impressive leg strength and accuracy are reshaping expectations and perceptions of kickers in the NFL.
Post Malone, a well-known Cowboys fan, was spotted sporting Aubrey’s No. 17 jersey, signaling a cultural shift regarding the kicker’s role in the franchise. For many young fans, Aubrey is synonymous with that number, eclipsing previous players like Quincy Carter and underlining the significance of his contributions. Observing Aubrey’s kicks — his consistency from over 50 yards and his audacious attempts from 60-plus yards — fans and analysts have begun to associate excitement and anticipation with a position that was once considered an afterthought. This shift in perception is vital in a game where the outcomes of matches can hinge on a single field goal.
David Buehler, who was selected in the fifth round of the NFL draft in 2009, understands the mounting pressure and expectations that come with being a kicker in the league, especially one with immense potential like Aubrey. Buehler himself entered the league as a “big leg” kicker, showcasing impressive power during his time at USC. His draft choice came with hopes that he could translate that power into accuracy. However, while he had a strong start, he struggled to maintain that precision, leading to a relatively short career. This juxtaposition highlights how difficult it truly is to navigate both the power and precision necessary for the position—an aspect Aubrey seems to have mastered.
As Aubrey continues to set high standards in the kicking game, Buehler points to the evolution in the sport, particularly the advancements in training and technology that have drastically changed how kicking is approached. Players now have access to extensive performance analytics and specialized training methods that have transformed the art of kicking. Buehler believes this evolution will lead to further changes in the NFL’s regulations, particularly concerning the width of the goalposts. Just as the length of point-after attempts was adjusted when scoring became too routine, Buehler suggests that the NFL might eventually narrow the posts to create a more challenging environment for kickers, akin to the changes that have come in other sports.
Aubrey’s achievements in the early stages of his career, particularly his successful conversion rates from long distances and his record-breaking efforts, have caught the attention of the NFL community at large. Currently, he boasts an impressive statistic of being 17-of-18 on field goals exceeding 50 yards, which not only demonstrates his capability but also his consistency under pressure. These accomplishments have led some to speculate about his place in the history of kickers, with comparisons being drawn to the likes of Justin Tucker, renowned for his prowess in the role. Buehler, acknowledging Aubrey’s potential, asserts that if he maintains this trajectory, he could very well solidify his legacy among the greatest kickers in NFL history.
As the game evolves and the standards for kickers rise, Aubrey is setting a new bar for what can be expected from players in this crucial role. His emergence as a prominent figure highlights a shift in culture and appreciation toward kickers in the NFL. Fans are no longer dimming the lights on kickers but celebrating their abilities, as evidenced by the enthusiasm surrounding Aubrey’s performances. His unique combination of power, precision, and showmanship has positioned him not just as a player to watch but as an entertainer in his own right. In a league often dominated by the high-octane drama of touchdowns and decisive plays, Brandon Aubrey has become a compelling figure who deserves both attention and respect as he continues his journey in the NFL.