The Dallas Cowboys may have wrapped up a disappointing 7-9-1 campaign, but not everything in Big D was doom and gloom. The offense showed real signs of life, thanks in large part to two key newcomers-running back Javonte Williams and wide receiver George Pickens.
Pickens, in particular, made his presence felt in a big way, earning second-team All-Pro honors in his first year with the team. Both players are entering contract years, and both are expected to cash in.
But while their names are grabbing headlines, there’s another player the Cowboys absolutely cannot afford to overlook: kicker Brandon Aubrey.
Yes, the kicker.
Aubrey has quietly become one of the most valuable weapons on the Cowboys’ roster, and the front office has a decision to make-one that could shape how this team operates in critical moments for years to come. While Pickens and Williams will hit the open market as unrestricted free agents, Aubrey’s situation is a little different. He’s a restricted free agent, which gives Dallas some leverage-but also presents a ticking clock.
What Is a Restricted Free Agent-and Why Does It Matter for Aubrey?
A restricted free agent (RFA) is a player with an expiring contract and three accrued NFL seasons. Unlike unrestricted free agents, RFAs can negotiate with other teams, but their current team has the right to match any offer-or receive draft pick compensation if they decline. That compensation depends on the type of tender the team places on the player.
There are three tender options:
- Right of First Refusal - Dallas can match any offer, but if they don’t, they get no compensation.
- Second-Round Tender - Dallas can match, and if they don’t, they receive a second-round pick.
- First-Round Tender - Same deal, but the compensation is a first-round pick.
Reports suggest the Cowboys are leaning toward placing a second-round tender on Aubrey. That would give them solid protection in case another team tries to poach him-but let’s be honest, the smarter move would be to lock him up long-term and avoid the drama altogether.
Why a Long-Term Deal Makes Sense
The Cowboys already tried to get ahead of this last summer, engaging in preliminary talks with Aubrey’s camp. No deal came together, but with free agency looming, the urgency is back. And if Dallas wants to keep one of the most reliable legs in football, they’re going to have to pay up.
Let’s talk numbers.
The current gold standard for kickers is Harrison Butker, who signed a four-year, $25.6 million deal in 2024, with $15 million fully guaranteed. Jake Elliott isn’t far behind, with a $6 million annual salary. Given Aubrey’s accolades and the rising salary cap, it’s reasonable to project that he’ll command even more.
A fair estimate? Try five years, $36 million, with $25.2 million guaranteed-an annual salary of $7.2 million that would reset the kicker market. It’s a rich deal, but one that reflects just how valuable Aubrey has become.
Aubrey’s Impact Goes Beyond the Box Score
Since winning the job in 2023, Aubrey has completely changed how the Cowboys approach situational football. He gives Dallas a legitimate scoring threat from just about anywhere past midfield.
That changes how you call plays on third down. That changes how you manage the clock at the end of halves.
That changes how you win close games.
Need proof? Aubrey owns the NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35).
He’s also made the Pro Bowl in each of his three seasons. And he’s not just accurate-he’s got range.
He’s hit six field goals from 60 yards or more, the most in league history, and holds the record for the longest kick in franchise history.
Even when his accuracy dipped last season, it was a reminder that he’s human-not a reason to panic. His body of work speaks for itself.
And let’s not overlook his skill on the new kickoff format. Aubrey consistently placed the ball in the corners of the field, putting returners in tough spots.
Unfortunately, the Cowboys’ coverage units didn’t always capitalize, but that’s not on him. His execution was textbook.
Then there’s the clutch factor. Remember that 64-yarder against the Giants to force overtime?
Followed by a 46-yard game-winner? That’s the kind of reliability that coaches dream about-and that opponents fear.
The Bottom Line
In a league where games are often decided by a single possession, having a kicker like Brandon Aubrey is a game-changer. He’s not just a luxury-he’s a necessity.
The Cowboys have seen what life without a reliable kicker looks like. They don’t want to go back.
With Pickens and Williams poised to get new deals, it’s easy to let a kicker fly under the radar. But make no mistake-Dallas needs to make Brandon Aubrey a priority. Whether it’s through a second-round tender or a market-setting contract extension, the Cowboys have to find a way to keep No. 17 in silver and blue.
Because when you’ve got a kicker who’s practically automatic from 60 yards, you don’t let him walk. You pay the man.