Clutch Kicker Alert: Is Brandon Aubrey the Cowboys’ Secret Weapon for a Super Bowl Run?
The roar of the crowd, the tension in the air, and the fate of the game resting on a single kick. For the Dallas Cowboys, that scenario has become increasingly synonymous with one name: Brandon Aubrey. After a nail-biting 40-37 overtime victory against the New York Giants, sealed by Aubrey’s clutch 46-yard field goal, the question on everyone’s mind is: Could this former soccer player turned NFL sensation be the Cowboys’ secret weapon for a Super Bowl run?
From Soccer Field to NFL Gridiron: The Aubrey Story
Brandon Aubrey’s path to NFL stardom is anything but ordinary. Drafted into the MLS, he found his way to the Birmingham Stallions in the USFL before landing a tryout with the Cowboys in 2023. Since then, he’s become a legend in Dallas, and arguably the greatest kicker in franchise history. In just his third season, Aubrey’s already etched his name in the record books, showcasing an accuracy and leg strength that have made him a game-changing asset.
A Record-Breaking Start
Aubrey’s impact has been immediate and record-breaking. He holds the NFL record for most consecutive field goals made to start a career with 36. He’s also the most accurate kicker in NFL history from 50+ yards, converting an astounding 90% of his attempts (27 of 30). In 2024, he set a new league record with 14 field goals of at least 50 yards.
The Giants Game: A Testament to Clutch Performance
The recent game against the Giants was a masterclass in clutch kicking. With seconds remaining in regulation and the Cowboys trailing, Aubrey stepped up to nail a 64-yard field goal, sending the game into overtime. As if that wasn’t enough, he then booted a 46-yarder as time expired in overtime to secure the win. This historic performance made him the first player in NFL history to hit a field goal as time expired in both regulation and overtime.
Beyond the Numbers: The Mental Edge
Aubrey’s success isn’t just about physical talent; it’s also about mental fortitude. As he puts it, he prepares for those super long kicks by “talking to myself, going through breathing exercises, just reminding myself that I’m made for this moment. I believe I’m the best kicker in the league, so there’s no better spot to be. Go have fun.” This confidence and composure are invaluable assets in high-pressure situations.
Special Teams Excellence: A Complete Unit
While Aubrey’s heroics often steal the spotlight, the Cowboys’ special teams unit is a force to be reckoned with. Punter Bryan Anger, a two-time Pro Bowler, boasts a booming leg and consistently pins opponents deep. Return specialist KaVontae Turpin, also a Pro Bowler, provides electrifying returns that can shift field position in an instant. Long snapper Trent Sieg has been a reliable presence, ensuring smooth operations on every kick.
The Road to the Super Bowl: Can Aubrey Be the Difference?
The Cowboys’ Super Bowl aspirations hinge on several factors, including the performance of Dak Prescott, the offensive line, and Micah Parsons-led defense. However, a reliable kicker can be the ultimate difference-maker in close games, especially in the playoffs. With Aubrey’s accuracy and range, the Cowboys have a weapon that can turn potential losses into victories.
Contract Extension on the Horizon?
Aubrey is currently playing on a rookie deal that pays him $898,333 per season, making him the 33rd highest-paid kicker in the NFL. However, after his stellar performance, Jerry Jones has made it clear that an extension is on the horizon. Some analysts predict that Aubrey’s next contract could be worth around $7 million a year, potentially exceeding the deal of Harrison Butker, making him the highest-paid kicker in the league.
The Kicker as a Weapon
In today’s NFL, where games are often decided by a few points, a clutch kicker is more valuable than ever. Brandon Aubrey has proven that he’s not just a kicker; he’s a weapon. As the Cowboys navigate the challenges of the 2025 season, they can take comfort in knowing that they have a special teams ace who can deliver when it matters most. Whether Aubrey can kick the Cowboys to a Super Bowl remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: with him on their side, anything is possible.