Brandon Aubrey Balances Jury Duty and NFL Commitments
In a unique confluence of civic duty and athletic responsibility, Brandon Aubrey, the talented kicker for the Dallas Cowboys, found himself not just on the field but also in the courtroom. The Cowboys' recent bye week coincided with Aubrey’s service as a juror in a domestic violence trial held in Tarrant County, a commitment that tested his ability to juggle simultaneous demands.
The trial, held from October 22 to October 30, 2023, involved the case of Daniel Rincones, who was ultimately convicted on one charge and sentenced to 65 years. Aubrey's role wasn't merely honorary; he was deeply involved, experiencing the rhythm of court proceedings and their aftermath. Despite already securing a postponement once, his request to reschedule was declined, forcing him to adapt to an unconventional routine.
"I have a DA sister-in-law, and my brother's a lawyer," Aubrey mentions, underscoring his familial ties to the legal sphere that might have made him a natural fit for this civic duty. Yet, for someone like Aubrey, whose life is meticulously scheduled around practice, games, and team strategies, this jury service posed a considerable logistical challenge. "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]."
Practicing law may run in his family, but it’s Aubrey’s performance on the football field that has been particularly noteworthy this season. Even amidst these distractions, his execution as a kicker remains impeccable. Aubrey went back to practice after his court duties, sharpening his athletic skills while fulfilling his public duty.
In the NFL context, Aubrey has been a standout performer. His marksmanship on field goals has been stellar, hitting 18 of his 20 attempts this season. His exceptional range has also shown success from beyond 50 yards, achieving nine such field goals, landing him second in the league. Since joining the NFL, Aubrey has accrued a remarkable total of 19 field goals from this challenging distance.
Amidst the time crunch of legal obligations, Aubrey's commitment to the Cowboys did not wane. John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys’ special teams coordinator, noted the adept balancing act, expressing admiration for Aubrey's dedication: "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."
Aubrey’s prowess was on full display during a crucial game against the San Francisco 49ers, where he successfully executed all three extra points and kicked a pivotal 29-yard field goal. His cool demeanor under pressure didn’t just stem from field experience. The courtroom, it seems, had a role in honing another facet of his resilience.
"I could have been more assertive, and at that point, everyone knows who I am there," Aubrey reflected, showing a humility rare in professional athletes who find themselves in public positions outside their sport. "I don't want to sound like I think I'm better than anyone else or that I'm above the job."
This balancing act between two worlds—one of structured plays and strategies, and the other bound by the somber responsibility of justice—speaks volumes of Aubrey’s character. The payoff? A reinforcement of discipline, showcasing what can be achieved by adhering to rigorous schedules and commitments.
As the Cowboys look to further their ambitions this season, Aubrey's experience in Tarrant County stands as a testament to duality—as an athlete and a citizen balancing responsibilities. While such an intersection of civic and sporting duties is rare, it underscores a significant narrative: that of a professional fulfilling all aspects of his role, both on and off the field.