Brandon Aubrey, better known for his exploits on the gridiron with the Dallas Cowboys, recently shouldered an unexpected role: juror in a domestic violence trial in Tarrant County. The trial, which spanned from October 22 to October 30, 2023, culminated with the conviction of Daniel Rincones, who was handed a 65-year sentence.
A Dual Commitment
A rarity for most professional athletes, Aubrey found himself balancing his football responsibilities with the civic duty of serving on a jury. His initial attempts to reschedule were denied, as he had previously postponed the obligation. Aubrey did not allow this to deter him from fulfilling both roles with dedication.
"I have a DA [district attorney] sister-in-law and my brother's a lawyer," Aubrey mentioned, offering a glimpse into his familiarity with the legal world. This background perhaps equipped him with some readiness for the demanding task outside the stadium.
Juggling Acts in Tarrant County and Beyond
Duty called at “nine to five in downtown Fort Worth in the court," according to Aubrey, prompting a high-speed dash post-trial to The Star in Frisco, the Cowboys' training facility, saying, "Hop on the highway after and race down here. It's about an hour and a half to get here [in rush hour]."
This tightrope walk of managing NFL practice sessions and the courtroom set an extraordinary precedent for professional athletes, not least because it all coincided with the Cowboys' Week 7 bye. The timing offered a sliver of respite, yet did little to ease Aubrey's demanding schedule.
On Field Performance Amidst Judicial Duties
Despite the rigorous demands of his dual commitments, Aubrey’s focus never wavered on the field. In a critical match-up against the San Francisco 49ers, he executed all three extra-point kicks and nailed a pivotal 29-yard field goal. It’s an extraordinary testament to his composure and preparation amidst distraction.
Throughout the season, Aubrey has proved an invaluable asset to the Cowboys, completing 18 out of 20 field goal attempts. His proficiency shines particularly from long range, where he’s connected on nine successful field goals beyond 50 yards, ranking him second in the NFL for that distance this season. He continues to raise the bar with a cumulative 19 successful field goals from 50 yards or more since entering the NFL.
Team Support and Recognition
John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys’ special teams coordinator, has been quick to recognize Aubrey's efforts, 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." This acknowledgment from a key member of the coaching staff underscores the collective support and understanding within the team amid Aubrey’s unique situation.
Aubrey himself remained modest about his dual roles, reflecting, "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 comments reveal a humility that complements his professionalism, refusing to leverage his sports fame for leniency in his civic duties.
The narrative of Brandon Aubrey's season is one of commendable commitment, juggling responsibilities with grace, both on and off the field. As he continues to support the Cowboys in their pursuit of success, his recent experience will remain a noteworthy chapter, illustrating a rare intersection of high-stakes athletic prowess and civic responsibility.