NFL and Jury Duty: Brandon Aubrey's Unique Balancing Act
In the realm of professional sports, athletes often contend with challenges both on and off the field. Few, however, face a dual commitment quite like Brandon Aubrey did recently. The Dallas Cowboys kicker found himself serving as a juror in a high-profile domestic violence trial even as he continued to sharpen his skills for NFL matchups. The trial of Daniel Rincones, which unfolded in Tarrant County from October 22 to October 30, 2023, added an unexpected layer of complexity to Aubrey's already demanding schedule. Rincones was ultimately convicted and sentenced to 65 years.
Aubrey, whose background includes familial ties to the legal world, attempted to reschedule his jury duty but found his request denied following an earlier postponement. "I have a DA [district attorney] sister-in-law, and my brother's a lawyer," Aubrey shared, highlighting his deep connection to the legal community. Despite his efforts, Aubrey was required to serve, intertwining his duties on the field with those in the courtroom.
This commitment meant juggling NFL practice sessions and the responsibilities of a juror. The trial coincided serendipitously with the Cowboys' Week 7 bye, offering a rare window where his dual obligations did not conflict with a game. Yet, the demands were far from trivial. "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]," Aubrey recounted. This rigorous schedule underscored the dedication required to honor both roles fully.
Aubrey's performance on the field, despite these additional commitments, was nothing short of remarkable. During this period, he excelled in a crucial matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, effortlessly converting all three extra points and a key 29-yard field goal. His precision has been evident throughout the season, successfully completing 18 out of 20 field goal attempts, including nine remarkable successes from beyond 50 yards — ranking him second in the NFL for such long-distance efforts.
In total, since entering the NFL, Aubrey has amassed 19 field goals from over 50 yards, a testament to his resilience and focus even amid external pressures. His extraordinary ability to manage these dual responsibilities has not gone unnoticed within the Cowboys organization. John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys' special teams coordinator, spoke highly of Aubrey's dedication, 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."
Aubrey's story offers a unique perspective on the life of a professional athlete who must navigate unexpected responsibilities while maintaining peak performance levels. His experience as a juror presents a vivid reminder that professional athletes, despite their prominent public personas, still fulfill civic duties like any other citizen. Aubrey himself reflected on the experience, acknowledging the unique position it placed him in, "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 commitment to dual service — as both a dedicated NFL player and responsible citizen — add depth to Aubrey's journey, highlighting the balance he struck between professional responsibilities and civic duties. The seamless blending of these elements paints a portrait of an athlete whose determination transcends the confines of a football field.
As the NFL season progresses, Brandon Aubrey's ability to handle such pressures will continue to inspire not just his teammates but those following his unique story. Through his example, it's clear that the life of a professional athlete can encompass the diligent fulfillment of off-field duties, enriching both their personal narrative and their professional journey.