Brandon Aubrey Balances NFL Kicking Duties with Jury Service
It's not often you see a professional athlete balancing the pressures of an NFL season with the civic duty of jury service. Brandon Aubrey, kicker for the Dallas Cowboys, found himself in this unique position during a recent domestic violence trial in Tarrant County, which wrapped up just as the Cowboys were heading into their Week 7 bye.
Aubrey served on the jury for the trial involving Daniel Rincones, who was eventually convicted on one charge with a substantial sentence of 65 years. The trial, spanning from October 22 to October 30, 2023, required Aubrey to manage his commitments on and off the field, revealing a side of the game not often in the spotlight.
Despite the demanding schedule, Aubrey remained dedicated to both his roles, fitting in NFL practice sessions around his courtroom obligations. "It was nine to five in downtown Fort Worth in the court," Aubrey explained, detailing his hectic days. "Hop on the highway after and race down here [to The Star in Frisco]. It's about an hour and a half to get here [in rush hour]."
Aubrey, who attempted to reschedule his jury duty after an initial postponement, embraced his responsibilities with equanimity. Displaying humility, he noted, "I could have been more assertive and at that point, everyone knows who I am there, and I don't want to sound like I think I'm better than anyone else or that I'm above the job." His familial ties to the legal world, with a district attorney sister-in-law and a lawyer brother, perhaps provided him with added perspective on the duty's significance.
Balancing Duties While Excelling on the Field
While Aubrey was fulfilling his civic responsibilities, he did not let them impede his performance on the field. His dedication and professionalism were evident when he flawlessly executed three extra points and a pivotal 29-yard field goal against the San Francisco 49ers, further solidifying his status in the league. Under Aubrey's belt this season are 18 successful field goal attempts out of 20, including nine from beyond 50 yards—an impressive feat that places him second in the NFL for such long-range kicks this season.
"We got our work done Wednesday and Thursday," noted John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys’ special teams coordinator. "Doing what we had to do and much respect for him knowing what he had to do." Fassel’s remarks highlighted Aubrey's ability to juggle both commitments without compromising his performance.
A Look at Aubrey’s Impact
Aubrey’s consistent kicking has become a reliable asset for the Cowboys. Since entering the NFL, he has made a total of 19 field goals from 50 yards or more, showcasing both range and accuracy. His ability to deliver in clutch situations continues to win him praise from teammates and coaches alike.
Brandon Aubrey's story is a testament to the diverse pressures athletes may face outside the playing realm. In balancing his roles as a juror and an NFL player, he has shown an unwavering commitment to his work both on the field and in the community. His approach stands as a reminder of the dedication required to succeed at the highest levels, professionally and personally.
With the trial now concluded and the Cowboys returning from their bye week, all eyes will be on Aubrey as he resumes his primary focus on helping his team push towards a successful season. His ability to juggle such significant responsibilities adds an intriguing chapter to his career and underscores the varied roles athletes can play beyond their immediate sporting endeavors.