Brandon Aubrey Balances NFL Duties with Jury Service
Brandon Aubrey is a name that has been generating buzz both on and off the field. Known for his dependability as a kicker for the Dallas Cowboys, Aubrey recently demonstrated an ability to juggle commitments as he served as a juror in a domestic violence trial. This extraordinary feat unfolded during a significant NFL bye week for the Cowboys, underscoring Aubrey’s dedication to both civic duty and his career.
Aubrey's involvement in the trial of Daniel Rincones in Tarrant County—held from October 22 to October 30, 2023—is a testament to this balancing act. Rincones faced charges of domestic violence, leading to a conviction and a 65-year sentence. Despite the trial's demands, Aubrey attended his NFL practice sessions, prepping for upcoming games with the precision that Cowboys fans have come to expect.
In the midst of it all, Aubrey wasn't just another face in the jury box. His connections to the legal world run deep. "I have a DA [district attorney] sister-in-law, and my brother's a lawyer," Aubrey noted, reflecting on the familial ties that perhaps aided his readiness for such serious civic responsibilities. Yet, this did not grant him leeway with scheduling. Despite attempting to reschedule his jury duty due to his NFL commitments, his request was denied after a previous postponement.
From the courtroom's rigors, Aubrey would dash to join his team, describing the rush as, "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]." This frenetic schedule seemed to put Aubrey’s time management to the ultimate test.
While the Cowboys' Week 7 bye may have slightly eased this scheduling nightmare, the pressure remained. Keeping calm under pressure is where Aubrey truly excels, both as a juror and on the field. He displayed poise with the pigskin soon after the trial, nailing all three extra points and securing a pivotal 29-yard field goal in the game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Aubrey's athletic prowess this season has been noteworthy. The kicker has successfully completed 18 out of 20 field goal attempts, earning him a place among the league's elite. Notably, Aubrey has powered nine field goals from beyond 50 yards, placing him second in the NFL for long-range kicks this season. Since his NFL debut, Aubrey has established an impressive record with a total of 19 successful field goals from 50 yards or more.
John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys’ special teams coordinator, acknowledged Aubrey's remarkable dual engagement in the legal and athletic arenas. "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," Fassel remarked, highlighting the team’s understanding and respect for Aubrey's extracurricular obligations.
Aubrey's days were stretched to their limits, yet he maintained a humble perspective. "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," Aubrey said, illustrating a grounded character amidst demanding circumstances.
This juggling act between civic duty and professional excellence is a rare spectacle in the high-stakes world of the NFL. Brandon Aubrey's remarkable story offers a unique view into the lives of athletes, showing that even in the throes of intense public attention and pressure, personal commitment and civic responsibility continue to hold significant value. As Aubrey continues to impress on the field, his recent actions off the field have only enhanced his reputation as a dedicated and multifaceted individual.