Brandon Aubrey: Balancing the Scales of Justice and the NFL
It’s rare to find an NFL player whose week encompasses both the adrenaline-charged chaos of football and the somber judicial process of a courtroom. Yet, for Brandon Aubrey, kicker for the Dallas Cowboys, this unique balance recently became his reality. Amidst his commitment to professional sports, Aubrey found himself fulfilling civic duties as a juror in a significant domestic violence trial.
In late October 2023, Aubrey served on the jury in Tarrant County during the trial of Daniel Rincones, a case that not only demanded his attention but ultimately culminated in a 65-year conviction for Rincones. This week-long legal immersion, spanning from October 22 to October 30, was far from a simple task for Aubrey, who not only had to keep up with the rigorous demands of his NFL career but also strive to maintain objectivity in court.
Aubrey had initially attempted to reschedule his jury duty, a request that was ultimately denied after an earlier postponement. Proclaiming humility, Aubrey shared, "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 a statement reflects not only his grounded nature but also the unique challenge athletes face when their public identity precedes them.
Despite the taxing dual obligations, Aubrey's performance on the field remained unblemished. Notably, during the Cowboys' Week 7 bye, which coincided with his jury duty, Aubrey stayed sharp, engaging in practice sessions in Frisco post-court. His hustle was evident as he described the 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]."
That commitment bore fruit when he delivered a flawless performance against the San Francisco 49ers, securing all three extra points and clinching a crucial 29-yard field goal. Such achievements have underscored Aubrey's consistent excellence, as he has successfully converted 18 of 20 field goal attempts this season. Notably, he ranks second in the NFL for successful kicks from beyond 50 yards, having nailed nine of them this season and tallying 19 since his NFL entrance.
Aubrey's exceptional capability to maintain his dual roles was not lost on John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys’ special teams coordinator, who acknowledged the kicker's unique commitment: "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." This recognition speaks volumes about Aubrey's professionalism and the respect he commands within the team.
Adding an intriguing layer to Aubrey’s narrative is his familial connection to law. "I have a DA [district attorney] sister-in-law, and my brother's a lawyer," he mentioned, alluding to a familial familiarity with the legal system. This connection likely provided him with valuable insights during the trial, enhancing his experience beyond that of an ordinary citizen.
As the Cowboys look forward to the rest of the season, Aubrey’s balancing act of football and civic duty stands out as a testament to his resilience and dedication. In a league where the narrative often centers on on-field heroics, Aubrey’s commitment to his community offers a refreshing reminder of the multifaceted roles athletes can play in society. While the NFL season may have many more exciting twists and turns, Aubrey’s recent journey poignantly illustrates the balance between personal duty and professional success.