Aubrey Balances Jury Duty and Kicking Duty with Remarkable Poise
Brandon Aubrey, the talented NFL kicker for the Dallas Cowboys, displayed immense dedication and resilience during a period that would test anyone's mettle. In the midst of his career, Aubrey found himself serving as a juror in a high-profile domestic violence trial in Tarrant County. The trial, which began on October 22 and concluded on October 30, saw Daniel Rincones convicted on one charge and sentenced to 65 years in prison. While his role in the judiciary system was crucial, Aubrey simultaneously remained committed to his responsibilities on the football field.
Juggling Dual Responsibilities
Aubrey's life during this period was anything but ordinary. Despite attempting to reschedule his jury duty to focus on his NFL career, his request was denied following an earlier deferment. This decision required him to engage in a delicate balancing act—honoring a civic obligation while fulfilling his role as a key player for the Cowboys.
The timing of the trial, however, fortuitously coincided with the Cowboys' Week 7 bye, granting Aubrey some respite from game day pressures. Yet his earnest commitment was unmistakable. John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys' special teams coordinator, commended Aubrey’s dedication, noting, "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 Legal Family Background
Aubrey's involvement in the legal process is perhaps underscored by his familial ties to the justice system. As he puts it, "I have a DA [district attorney] sister-in-law, and my brother's a lawyer." This connection might have influenced Aubrey's understanding and appreciation of his crucial civic duty.
Each day involved a significant commute, with Aubrey spending from "nine to five in downtown Fort Worth in the court," before making the one-and-a-half hour trek to The Star in Frisco for football practice. "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]," Aubrey explained, highlighting the logistical challenges he faced during this period.
A Performer on and off the Field
Despite these challenges, Aubrey’s performance did not falter. Not only did he manage his time effectively between court and field, but he also achieved remarkable feats on the football turf. He executed all three extra points and secured a crucial 29-yard field goal in the recent game against the San Francisco 49ers. His statistics this season speak volumes of his capabilities, having completed 18 out of 20 field goal attempts, with an impressive nine successful field goals from beyond 50 yards. This achievement places him second in the NFL for long-distance kicks this season. Aubrey, since entering the NFL, has nailed a total of 19 field goals from 50 yards or more.
Reflecting on a Unique Experience
Reflecting on his dual-duty experience, Aubrey humbly remarked, "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." His words reflect a commitment not only to his athletic duties but also to the civic responsibilities that every citizen faces, regardless of their public profile.
Indeed, Aubrey’s ability to balance such demanding roles, both on the field and in the courtroom, underscores a unique resilience and dedication worthy of recognition. It is a testament to his character and professionalism, marking him not only as a resilient athlete but also as an engaged member of the community. As the Cowboys continue their season, Aubrey’s contributions on and off the field remain invaluable, a shining example of dedication amidst life’s unpredictable demands.