Balancing the Scales: Brandon Aubrey's Dual Role as Juror and NFL Kicker
In an extraordinary display of dedication both on and off the field, Brandon Aubrey successfully juggled his responsibilities as an NFL kicker for the Dallas Cowboys while fulfilling his civic duty as a juror during a pivotal domestic violence trial. The trial, involving Daniel Rincones, ran from October 22 to October 30, 2023, at Tarrant County, culminating in a conviction and a 65-year sentence for Rincones. While these proceedings might seem far removed from the gridirons of the NFL, for Aubrey, the courtroom and the football field became concurrent arenas of focus and commitment.
Jury Duty and Family Ties
Jury duty—a civic obligation that even professional athletes aren't exempt from—is something Aubrey attempted to reschedule. His request was declined, following an earlier postponement, which left him no choice but to partake in the trial. “I have a DA sister-in-law, and my brother's a lawyer," Aubrey mentioned, hinting at his familial connections to the legal world, which might have added an extra layer of intrigue and duty to his jury service.
The demands of jury duty were not trivial. As Aubrey narrated, “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." The hour-and-a-half commute through rush hour traffic didn’t deter him from maintaining his responsibilities as a vital member of the Cowboys squad.
Keeping Focus on the Field
Despite the long hours spent in court, Aubrey managed to put on an impressive display during the Cowboys' games. His crucial performance included executing all three extra points and a significant 29-yard field goal against the San Francisco 49ers. Aubrey's consistent prowess was further illustrated by his impressive 18 out of 20 successful field goal attempts this season. Furthermore, with nine successful field goals from beyond 50 yards, Aubrey stands second in the NFL for such long-range feats this season, amassing a total of 19 field goals from 50 yards or more since joining the league.
These accomplishments did not go unnoticed. John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys’ special teams coordinator, acknowledged Aubrey's balancing act between the courtroom and the practice field. “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,” Fassel remarked, highlighting the team's coordinated efforts to accommodate Aubrey's dual commitments.
A Unique Challenge
Aubrey’s experience underscores a unique challenge faced by professional athletes. His role in the trial coincided with the Cowboys' Week 7 bye, providing him a slim opportunity to manage both responsibilities without compromising performance. However, such a schedule demanded more than just time management. It required the mental fortitude to compartmentalize the seriousness of the trial—from testimonies and legal arguments at the court—to the clear-headed focus needed to execute in high-pressure situations on the football field.
The experience has evidently left its mark on Aubrey, offering a perspective that transcends the typical professional athlete experience. “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,” Aubrey reflected, adding a note of humility to his remarkable accomplishment of successfully navigating two demanding arenas.
Brandon Aubrey's narrative is a testament to the multifaceted lives professional athletes lead, reminding us that beneath the helmets and accolades, they share common societal responsibilities. As the NFL season continues, Aubrey’s dual commitment serves as a powerful illustration of dedication across all facets of life, perhaps inspiring others to approach their own challenges with similar resolve and integrity.