Brandon Aubrey emerges as surprising trade candidate for Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys, a team renowned for its storied history and strong performances, finds itself in a perplexing situation as the NFL trade deadline approaches on November 4. Among the potential trade candidates, one name stands out: kicker Brandon Aubrey, a player who has quickly become an irreplaceable asset on the field.
Aubrey’s Impressive Track Record
Brandon Aubrey has made a significant impact since joining the Cowboys, boasting an impressive record of 92 successful field goals out of 101 attempts. His accuracy from long distances is particularly noteworthy, with 29 of those kicks coming from beyond 50 yards, including a remarkable long of 65 yards. He has also converted 105 of 109 extra points in his career, solidifying his reputation as arguably the best kicker in the league.
Despite these impressive statistics, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell recently speculated on Aubrey’s potential trade value, labeling him as a “notable” candidate for a trade. While the idea may seem outrageous to some, Barnwell emphasizes that his inclusion of Aubrey in trade discussions is more of a thought experiment than a serious proposal.
The Trade Dilemma
The Cowboys have made headlines in the lead-up to the trade deadline, with several players such as defensive tackle Mazi Smith and wide receiver Jalen Tolbert being discussed as possible departures. However, trading Aubrey would undoubtedly ignite fervent debate among fans and analysts alike. This speculation, while not at the level of discussions surrounding key defensive players like Micah Parsons, raises questions about the team’s overall strategy.
Barnwell expressed skepticism about the likelihood of the Cowboys parting ways with Aubrey, stating, “I would be stunned if the Cowboys traded Aubrey, but I’m throwing him out here more as a thought experiment than anything else.” He pointed out that a struggling Cowboys team might not fully utilize Aubrey’s talents, especially considering the kicker’s age—30 years old—while noting that kickers can often extend their careers into their 40s.
Future Considerations for the Cowboys
Another layer to the trade discussion involves Aubrey’s eligibility for an extension next offseason. This impending contract consideration adds complexity to the Cowboys’ decision-making process, as owner Jerry Jones and the front office weigh the potential benefits of retaining a top-performing kicker against the need to address other roster holes.
While the thought of losing Aubrey may be unsettling for Cowboys fans, it highlights the broader challenges facing the organization as they navigate this critical period. The team has until November 4 to finalize any trades, and the hope remains that Aubrey will remain a vital part of the Cowboys’ roster moving forward.
As the deadline approaches, the Cowboys must carefully evaluate their options, balancing the need for immediate improvement against the long-term implications of trading away one of their few standout players.
