Juggling responsibilities isn’t a new concept for professional athletes, but for Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey, a recent obligation had him dashing from the courthouse to the practice field—a balancing act that would challenge even the most seasoned NFL veterans.
The Unusual Dual Role
From October 22 to October 30, 2023, Aubrey found himself engrossed not on the football field but in a courtroom in Tarrant County, Texas. He served as a juror in a high-stakes domestic violence trial that concluded with the conviction of Daniel Rincones, who was sentenced to a substantial 65 years. Despite the significant nature of the proceedings, Aubrey was not able to reschedule his jury duty, having previously postponed it once before.
With familial ties steeped in the legal world—his sister-in-law is a district attorney, and his brother practices law—Aubrey faced the expectations of civic duty head-on. "I have a DA [district attorney] sister-in-law, and my brother's a lawyer," Aubrey noted, underscoring the personal gravity the role of juror carried for him.
Balancing the Schedule
The timing was less than ideal for Aubrey, directly overlapping with the Cowboys' Week 7 bye. However, the bye week did present a window of relative reprieve from the intense NFL schedule. During the trial, Aubrey maintained his practice sessions with the Cowboys, highlighting his commitment to both responsibilities. Nevertheless, this required a grueling routine: "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.
John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys' special teams coordinator, acknowledged the dedication of Aubrey, balancing the courtroom and the gridiron. "We got our work done Wednesday and Thursday," Fassel said. "Doing what we had to do and much respect for him knowing what he had to do." This double duty demanded not only physical endurance but mental finesse.
A Record of Excellence
Despite the added pressures off the field, Aubrey's performance on it has shown no signs of strain. Impressively, he executed all three extra points and nailed a crucial 29-yard field goal in a showdown against the formidable San Francisco 49ers. Aubrey’s precision has become a hallmark of his season, successfully completing 18 out of 20 field goal attempts. Notably, he has excelled with nine field goals of 50 yards or more, placing him second in the NFL for such achievements this year—a testament to his exceptional range and consistency.
With 19 kicks from 50 yards and beyond since entering the NFL, Aubrey’s trajectory in the league seems promising. His contributions not only underscore his skill but also his ability to compartmentalize and excel under pressure.
The Athlete's Perspective
Aubrey's approach to his civic duties is as revealing of his character as his on-field accomplishments. While he had the option to assert his professional commitments, he chose to serve the court diligently. "I could have been more assertive," he reflected. "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." This humility and sense of duty resonate beyond the football fan base, painting the picture of an individual committed to his roles, whether it be on Sundays or in the service of justice.
Brandon Aubrey’s last few weeks exemplify the unique intersections of sports, law, and personal responsibility. While his contributions to the Dallas Cowboys continue to draw attention, it is his unwavering commitment to all his roles that reminds us of the depth athletes often carry beyond their public personas. As Aubrey continues this NFL season, the reminder of his juror experience will likely be a testament to his resilience and dedication in facing challenges both familiar and unexpected.