In an unusual twist of balancing off-field obligations and professional sports demands, Brandon Aubrey, the Dallas Cowboys kicker, found himself in the crosshairs of civic duty and athletic commitment. Recently juggling his responsibilities on a football field with the solemn duty of serving as a juror in a domestic violence trial, Aubrey’s experience is a testament to resilience and adaptability.
Jury Duty and NFL Kicks
The trial in question occurred in Tarrant County and ran from October 22 to October 30, 2023. It involved the defendant Daniel Rincones, who was ultimately convicted on a charge and sentenced to 65 years behind bars. Despite an attempt to reschedule his jury duty due to professional obligations, Aubrey, who had already deferred once before, was compelled to serve.
Compounding the complexity of his situation was Aubrey's familial connection to the legal field. With a sister-in-law serving as a district attorney and a brother who practices law, Aubrey’s ties to the judicial system, at least in personal terms, are notably strong. Reflecting on his civic duty and personal connections, Aubrey shared, "I have a DA [district attorney] sister-in-law, and my brother's a lawyer," illustrating how deeply ingrained the practice and importance of law and justice are within his family.
Commitment on Two Fronts
Despite the demands of the courtroom, Aubrey did not waver in his commitment to his team. His role as a juror coincided conveniently, in some measure, with the Cowboys' Week 7 bye. This timing allowed him some breathing room, although his dedication saw him practicing his kicking prowess even as he navigated the rush-hour highways from Fort Worth to Frisco. Describing the logistical juggling, Aubrey candidly noted, "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]."
Even amid these challenges, Aubrey excelled on the field. He made all three extra points and a critical 29-yard field goal in a face-off against the San Francisco 49ers. This performance formed part of Aubrey's impressive season record—successfully converting 18 out of 20 field goal attempts and consistently landing shots from over 50 yards.
Mainstay of the Special Team
Aubrey’s athletic marks have placed him second in the NFL this season for successful field goals from beyond 50 yards, having completed nine such kicks. Since entering the professional arena, he has registered 19 field goals from that daunting distance, showcasing an impressive blend of precision and strength.
His reliability hasn’t gone unnoticed by the Cowboys’ coaching staff, particularly by John "Bones" Fassel, the special teams coordinator. In acknowledgment of Aubrey's dual roles, Fassel remarked, "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."
Through this period, Aubrey demonstrated a drive that resonates not only with his teammates and coaches but with fans who value commitment, both to the game and to the duties beyond it. He faced his obligations with sincerity, saying, "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." Such humility and determination underscore Aubrey’s character and dedication.
This balancing act, where the courtroom temporarily shared the stage with his professional endeavors, has further cemented Aubrey's standing as not just an outstanding athlete but as an individual who respects his societal responsibilities. His efforts exemplify how figures in high-stake environments manage their commitments—a fascinating, albeit rare, insight into the life of a professional athlete navigating everyday responsibilities.