In the bustling world of professional sports, balancing commitments is a reality all athletes face. Yet for Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey, the challenge took on a new dimension when he found himself serving as a juror in a domestic violence trial, all while maintaining his commitments to one of the most storied franchises in the NFL.
This past October, as the Cowboys entered their Week 7 bye, Aubrey was called to the courtroom in Tarrant County. The trial, which ran from October 22 to October 30, 2023, involved the case against Daniel Rincones, who was ultimately convicted on a charge and sentenced to 65 years in prison. Despite his attempts to further delay his jury duty, having previously rescheduled, Aubrey's request was denied. His life outside of football was, thus, thrust into the legal spotlight.
Aubrey's ties to the legal world are notable; his sister-in-law serves as a district attorney while his brother practices as a lawyer. "I have a DA [district attorney] sister-in-law, and my brother's a lawyer," Aubrey shared. It’s a familial connection that perhaps offers him a unique perspective on the importance of civic duties like jury service, even when they coincide with career obligations.
A Balancing Act Between Courtroom and Field
Throughout the trial, Aubrey adhered to a demanding schedule that demonstrated his commitment both to justice and his sport. "It was nine to five in downtown Fort Worth in the court. 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 explained, painting a vivid picture of his daily routine during the trial. Such a grueling schedule might overwhelm many, but for Aubrey, it was simply part of the job.
His particular situation provided an extraordinary backdrop for his professional commitments. While some might have bristled at the challenge, Aubrey remained humble about his dual role. "I could have been more assertive...but I don't want to sound like I think I'm better than anyone else or that I'm above the job," he reflected. These words echo his dedication to both his responsibilities as a citizen and as an athlete.
Performance Under Pressure
On the field, Aubrey's performance has been nothing short of impressive this season. He has successfully executed 18 out of 20 field goal attempts, a testament to his precision and focus. His record includes an astonishing nine field goals from beyond 50 yards, ranking him second in the NFL for attempts in this category. In total, since entering the league, Aubrey boasts 19 field goals from distances of 50 yards or more, solidifying his reputation as a reliable kicker under pressure.
His prowess was particularly evident during a game against the San Francisco 49ers, where Aubrey successfully executed all three extra points and nailed a crucial 29-yard field goal, underscoring his vital role in the Cowboys' lineup.
The Cowboys’ special teams coordinator, John "Bones" Fassel, acknowledged the effort that Aubrey put into managing both his commitments, stating, "We got our work done Wednesday and Thursday. Doing what we had to do and much respect for him knowing what he had to do." It’s a sentiment that reflects the respect Aubrey commands within the team, not only for his skills on the gridiron but also for his professionalism off the field.
An Uncommon Resolve
Aubrey's unique week-long experience of balancing courtroom duties with his athletic responsibilities stands as a remarkable testament to his dedication and work ethic. It’s rare to find an athlete performing at such a high level while simultaneously fulfilling another demanding role, and yet Aubrey managed to do just that. His discipline throughout this challenging period is a testament to both his personal and professional resolve.
In a season where every point counts, Brandon Aubrey’s ability to navigate such a tricky balance with grace and proficiency adds another layer of depth to his character, securing his spot not only as a crucial player for the Cowboys but as a commendable citizen-professional in the eyes of fans and peers alike.