INDIANAPOLIS – The Dallas Cowboys have presented kicker Brandon Aubrey with the highest contract offer ever extended to an NFL kicker, reflecting their strong interest in retaining him. Despite this historic bid, discussions remain unresolved as Aubrey seeks a significantly higher annual salary. These ongoing Brandon Aubrey contract talks continue to draw attention amid an intense offseason atmosphere.
Details of the Contract Proposal and Comparisons to Existing NFL Kicker Deals
Aubrey, currently a restricted free agent, was offered a deal averaging nearly $7.5 million per year, which surpasses any previous contract for a player at his position. However, Aubrey’s camp is aiming for close to $10 million annually. For context, Kansas City Chiefs’ kicker Harrison Butker holds the highest-paying contract before this offer with an average yearly salary of $6.4 million, totaling $25.6 million. Philadelphia Eagles kicker Jake Elliott’s deal follows closely, valued at $25.6 million with an average of $6 million per year.
Aubrey’s Performance and Importance to the Cowboys
Brandon Aubrey has demonstrated consistent excellence throughout his career, earning three Pro Bowl selections and securing a spot on an All-Pro team. Last season, he converted 85.7 percent of his field goal attempts. He set NFL records by becoming the first kicker to make three field goals of at least 55 yards in a game and is also the first to connect on three kicks of 60 or more yards during a single season. His long-range ability has made him a valuable asset that the coaching staff relies on heavily.
Negotiation Dynamics and Team Leverage
The Cowboys have significant leverage in these negotiations due to their ability to place either a first-round or second-round tender on Aubrey. The first-round tender projection stands at $8.107 million and the second-round at $5.811 million, both representing notable raises over his current pay. These tenders protect the team’s interests while signaling their intent to retain Aubrey. However, both parties have yet to reach an agreement despite ongoing talks that began before the 2025 season.
Statements from Cowboys Ownership on the Contract Progress
Stephen Jones, co-owner of the Cowboys, spoke about the negotiations, acknowledging the extended nature of the discussions without reaching a final deal. He said,
“We’ve been working on a long-term deal for some time,”
and added,
“We’ve exchanged offers and the goal is to get him signed.”
Later, he described the talks as a “journey” that has yet to culminate in an agreement, although the organization remains eager to finalize the contract.
“We’ve been working on a long-term deal for some time,”
Stephen Jones, Dallas Cowboys co-owner
“We’ve exchanged offers and the goal is to get him signed.”
Stephen Jones, Dallas Cowboys co-owner
“We’ve been in talks with Aubrey for even before the season started,”
Stephen Jones, Dallas Cowboys co-owner
“It’s been a journey but we hadn’t been able to get to a point where we can all agree so hadn’t got it done, love to get it done.”
Stephen Jones, Dallas Cowboys co-owner
Other Key Contract Situations Facing the Cowboys
Aubrey is one among four players Dallas aims to secure with long-term agreements this offseason. Running back Javonte Williams recently agreed to a three-year extension, while wide receiver George Pickens, approaching free agency, is expected to receive a franchise tag as the team works toward a new deal. Pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney, the team’s sack leader in 2025, is also under consideration for re-signing, though his fit within the team’s evolving defensive scheme remains uncertain.
Context of Dallas Cowboys’ History with High-Value Contracts
The Cowboys have a recent history of signing players to record-setting contracts at their positions. Quarterback Dak Prescott signed a contract extension in September 2024 that set the highest average salary in NFL history at $60 million per year. Other notable contracts include those of guard Zack Martin and guard Tyler Smith, placing Aubrey’s potential deal in line with this trend of investing heavily in key players.
Outlook on Aubrey’s Contract and Its Significance
Though Cowboys officials have not disclosed an expected timeline for finalizing contracts with their free agents, it is clear that locking in Aubrey remains a priority, especially given the franchise’s contractual tools. The offer being the largest ever for a kicker illustrates how highly they value his contributions. Both sides agree that Aubrey deserves to become the highest-paid kicker in NFL history, but the final terms remain under negotiation.
Looking Ahead: Implications for the Cowboys and Aubrey
The eventual resolution of Brandon Aubrey’s contract will set a new benchmark for kicker compensation in the NFL and reinforce the Cowboys’ commitment to sustaining their competitive roster. Securing Aubrey at an elite salary reflects the evolving recognition of specialist roles in the league. As contract talks continue alongside those of other key players, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these critical agreements shape the Cowboys’ 2025 campaign and beyond.
