In an unusual testament to dedication and professionalism, Brandon Aubrey, kicker for the Dallas Cowboys, balanced being a critical player on the field with civic duty off it. The unique circumstances unfolded as Aubrey served as a juror in a domestic violence trial during the Cowboys' bye week, showcasing an admirable commitment both to his team and the justice system.
A Juror's Balancing Act
The trial in question was centered around Daniel Rincones, held in Tarrant County from October 22 to October 30, 2023. Aubrey, despite his NFL commitments, fulfilled his civic duty as a juror — a role many might find challenging to negotiate alongside a professional sports career.
Brandon, attempting to reschedule his jury duty due to its clash with his professional obligations, found himself unable to do so after an initial postponement. The trial took precedence, and Rincones was ultimately convicted on a charge that led to a 65-year sentence.
Interestingly, ultimately the timing worked in Aubrey's favor. The Cowboys were on their Week 7 bye, providing a semblance of balance to his dual commitments. Aubrey, with familial roots in the legal world thanks to a sister-in-law who works as a district attorney and a brother who practices law, seemed to approach his role with respect and seriousness.
From Courtroom to Gridiron
Despite his roles on the jury, Aubrey's commitment to his team did not waver. Reflecting on the challenging schedule, he noted the grueling hours spent commuting from "nine to five in downtown Fort Worth in the court" before rushing to Frisco for practice. “It’s about an hour and a half to get here [in rush hour],” he remarked, illustrating the physical and emotional demands of his packed schedule.
The kicker's steadfast dedication paid off on the field. Returning from his civic duties, Aubrey successfully executed all three extra points and kicked a crucial 29-yard field goal in a tense matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. His performance underscored not just his reliability as a player but also his unwavering focus amid external pressures.
Sustained Excellence on the Field
The 2023 NFL season continues to highlight Aubrey’s remarkable talent. With 18 out of 20 field goal attempts successfully completed, and nine of those from distances exceeding 50 yards, he is emerging as one of the league's most notable kickers. These long-range successes place him second in the NFL for field goals beyond 50 yards this season, a testament to his precision and strength.
Impressively, since his NFL debut, Aubrey has achieved 19 successful field goals from 50 yards or more, carving out a significant niche in the league’s kicking cadre. His special teams coordinator, John "Bones" Fassel, lauded Aubrey for his commitment, 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.”
A Lesson in Professionalism
Aubrey’s ability to juggle his responsibilities with aplomb reflects not just on his personal determination but also on the nature of commitment required at both the professional and personal levels. Serving on a jury for such a serious trial, all the while keeping his eye on the ball, so to speak, is a narrative not often seen in professional sports.
Indeed, Aubrey’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted lives athletes lead and the unexpected challenges they must sometimes navigate. In his own words, "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." This humility and sense of duty speak volumes about his character.
As the season unfolds, Brandon Aubrey's dual roles make a compelling story of dedication, whether it's serving in the courtroom or excelling on the field. It's a narrative that exemplifies resilience, skill, and a deep-seated respect for both his professions.