ARLINGTON, Texas — Brandon Aubrey probably couldn’t have predicted where he would be today three years ago. Or maybe he could.
After a brief stint in the MLS ended after two years, Aubrey spent his free time as a software engineer training to become an NFL kicker. That work lasted two years before he got his first chance in the USFL, where he shone for two seasons with the Birmingham Stallions.
Brandon Aubrey has not only achieved his goal three years later. He’s surpassed almost everyone’s expectations. But don’t think he’s outdone himself.
“Just taking it one kick at a time and I know I can make any of the kicks that they’ve asked me to do,” Aubrey went on to say. “Going out there and making it is something I expect to do at this point.”
His performance against the Eagles on Sunday night saw him kick field goals from 60 yards, 59 yards, 45 yards, and 50 yards, bringing his season total to a perfect 30-for-30 on field goal attempts, an NFL record to begin a career.
“I’m just trying to go out there and do my job,” he explained. “Honestly, having the opportunity to do that – there are a lot of guys who don’t have coaches who are willing to give them the opportunity, so just being able to convert those opportunities and keep them coming, it feels good.”
Coaches all over the team have praised the rookie for his veteran-like presence and calmness in high-pressure situations. When asked, he believes he could hit a 70-yard field goal if the coaching staff asked him to. But his confidence is shared not only by himself, but also by long snapper Trent Sieg and holder Bryan Anger.
“They’ve been absolutely incredible,” he said. “Obviously, I can’t do my job unless they do theirs first.” This year, I don’t recall a single bad operation. That is extremely important to our current streak.”
There’s obviously a lot more to the Brandon Aubrey story to be written. His rookie season has seen him set records that no other kicker has, including becoming the first kicker in history to hit two 59-yard field goals in the same game on Sunday night.
When these moments occur, he recalls the last time he felt this way: three years ago, when he was practicing by himself, imagining where he is now.
“Going back three years, working as a software engineer and grinding away in my off time trying to get an opportunity, the USFL comes around,” that’s what he said. “I’m grateful for that.” These are my wildest fantasies come true. “I’m just trying to stay alive.”
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