In the world of NFL contract negotiations, aiming high is the name of the game. And that's exactly what Cowboys' kicker Brandon Aubrey is doing. Recently, it emerged that Aubrey, considered the best kicker in the league, is looking to make a significant mark on the kicker salary landscape.
Aubrey isn't just eyeing a slight pay bump. He’s aiming to shatter the current ceiling set by Kansas City’s Harrison Butker, who earns $6.4 million per year. Reports indicate that Aubrey turned down a hefty $7.5 million annual offer from the Cowboys, seeking a groundbreaking $10 million per year instead.
This move would make Aubrey the highest-paid kicker in NFL history. His agent, Todd France, is no stranger to big deals, having secured a lucrative contract for Dak Prescott that topped Joe Burrow’s earnings.
The Cowboys, however, hold a strong hand in these negotiations. As a restricted free agent, Aubrey is subject to certain team controls.
Dallas can place a tender on him, which would guarantee a one-year salary. This tender allows Aubrey to explore other offers, but the Cowboys retain the right to match any deal he signs with another team.
If another team wants to acquire Aubrey and the Cowboys choose not to match, they would have to compensate Dallas with a draft pick-either a first or second-rounder, depending on the tender amount. For instance, a $5.8 million tender would require a second-round pick, while an $8.1 million tender would demand a first-round pick.
Often, in these scenarios, if a player is tendered but prefers to move on, a trade can be negotiated for slightly less compensation. It's a strategic dance, and all eyes are on how this will unfold for Aubrey and the Cowboys.