A lot could go wrong for the 2023 Dallas Cowboys, from a spine injury on defense to an eventual playoff collapse. Their special teams performance wasn't among them.
One of the best developments from last year's lost season was the emergence of kicker Brandon Aubrey, who didn't qualify as a rookie but enjoyed a great first season in the NFL.
Of course, that came after a two-year stint with the USFL's Birmingham Stallions, which was Aubrey's first commitment after pro soccer.
December 10, 2023. Arlington, Texas, USA.Dallas Cowboys placekicker Brandon Aubrey (17) watches a game.
Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
The USFL had previously merged with the XFL to create the United Football League, in another attempt to create a soccer league that lasted longer into the spring when the NFL was not in control. His Birmingham Stallions survived the merger and opened the UFL season on Saturday against the Arlington Renegades.
Aubrey was at home to show support for his former team.
“What do you think, Stallions fans? Two-time USFL champion Brandon Aubrey,” he said. “I'm going to be here cheering on the stallions and hoping for a big win on opening day. I'm just giddy!”
He wanted victory, and he got it. The Stallions, led by former second-day NFL Draft pick and Carolina Panthers quarterback Matt Corral, won 27-14.
Aubrey spent the 2022 and 2023 seasons with the Stallions, where he was named to the All-USFL team in his first season and, as he noted, won two championships.
Needless to say, his success greatly influenced the NFL.
In his first year as Dallas' kicker, he set a record for consecutive converted field goals to start a career. He was also outstanding attacking from deep, making both 59- and 60-yard field goals in the same game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Aubrey led the league with 36 field goals on 38 total attempts. He also scored 49 of 52 points in extra points. After a turbulent few years following Dan Bailey's tenure, Aubrey has shown his talent as one of the league's best kickers and a legitimate weapon for the Cowboys.
As such, he was selected to the All-Pro first team.
He will look to return to Dallas in 2024 and provide much-needed stability in a seemingly difficult 2024 campaign.
