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Aubrey’s Contract Standoff: A Sign of Shifting Values for NFL Kickers?
The Dallas Cowboys are facing a critical offseason decision regarding Pro Bowl kicker Brandon Aubrey. The core issue isn’t Aubrey’s performance – he’s proven himself a reliable and impactful player – but rather his market value. Negotiations have stalled, highlighting a growing debate: how much are NFL teams willing to pay for elite special teams players?
Aubrey is seeking a contract approaching $10 million per year, a figure that would shatter the current record held by Harrison Butker ($6.4 million). The Cowboys have offered a deal exceeding Butker’s average, but remain hesitant to meet Aubrey’s demands.
This standoff isn’t isolated. It reflects a broader trend of teams re-evaluating the importance of special teams, and specifically, the value of a consistently accurate kicker. Aubrey’s success – converting 88.9 percent of his field goal attempts in 2025 – underscores the impact a reliable kicker can have on game outcomes.
The Cowboys have several options. They could leverage the restricted free agent tender, which would cost approximately $5.8 million for 2026. Alternatively, they could consider the franchise tag in 2027, but that would only delay the inevitable negotiation. The team’s decision will likely set a precedent for future kicker contracts.
The Rise of the Specialist
Aubrey’s story is particularly compelling. He transitioned to the NFL after a career in professional soccer and a stint as a software engineer. His rapid ascent to Pro Bowl status demonstrates that elite performance can come from unconventional backgrounds.
His three consecutive Pro Bowl selections are unprecedented for a kicker, highlighting his consistent excellence. This historical achievement is a key factor in his contract negotiations.
What’s at Stake for Dallas?
Beyond the financial implications, the Cowboys’ handling of Aubrey’s contract sends a message to the rest of the league and to their own players. Overpaying for a kicker could be seen as a misallocation of resources, but allowing a proven talent to walk away could damage team morale and future recruitment efforts.
“We’ve been in talks with Aubrey since before the season started,” said Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones. “It’s been a journey, but we haven’t been able to get to a point where we can all agree.”
The Restricted Free Agent Route
As a restricted free agent, Aubrey’s options are limited. The Cowboys retain the right to match any offer from another team, or they can simply tender him a contract, keeping him in Dallas for another season.
The level of tender will be crucial. A higher tender will deter other teams from making an offer, but it will also increase Aubrey’s salary for the upcoming season.
A League-Wide Impact
The outcome of the Aubrey negotiations will undoubtedly influence future contract talks for kickers across the NFL. If Aubrey secures a deal close to his $10 million target, it could trigger a wave of demands from other top performers at the position.
This case highlights the evolving landscape of NFL player valuation. As the league becomes increasingly focused on maximizing every point, the importance of reliable special teams play – and the players who deliver it – will only continue to grow.
