INDIANAPOLIS — A consensus exists between the Dallas Cowboys and Brandon Aubrey’s representative, the acclaimed Pro Bowler, that he merits the title of the NFL’s top-earning placekicker. The precise financial extent of this remains the point of contention.
Sources indicate that the Cowboys have put forth a contract proposal for Aubrey which surpasses the NFL’s leading annual average of $6.4 million, currently held by Harrison Butker of Kansas City. However, Aubrey’s representative, Todd France, has sought an agreement approaching $10 million yearly.
These discussions, which commenced last season, have yet to advance.
On Monday, Executive Vice President Stephen Jones described the situation as “a process,” choosing not to delve into the particulars of the discussions. He added, “We haven’t reached a juncture where everyone can concur, therefore it hasn’t been finalized. Nevertheless, we are eager to secure his contract.”
Aubrey is poised to become a restricted free agent. The Cowboys are expected to apply the second-round tender to him, an expense estimated at approximately $5.8 million. Given that he joined the NFL as a non-drafted player, should the Cowboys opt for the right-of-first-refusal tender, they would obtain no recompense if they chose not to equal a proposal from another club.
Historically, Wes Welker remains the sole restricted free agent to depart a club in exchange for a second-round draft selection. He was eventually transferred to the New England Patriots from the Miami Dolphins in 2007, fetching second- and seventh-round picks.
Whereas the restricted free agent offer would bind Aubrey only through the 2026 season, the Cowboys possess the option to deploy the franchise tag in 2027, thereby successfully preventing his entry into the open market for players.
Aubrey, who will celebrate his 31st birthday next month, has earned Pro Bowl selections in all three of his initial seasons. With six successful kicks from 60 yards or beyond, he holds the NFL record for most such field goals. During the previous season, he succeeded with 11 out of 17 field goal attempts from a distance of 50 yards or greater.
Throughout his professional tenure, he has converted 112 out of 127 field goal attempts, including a personal best of 65 yards. In the 2025 season, he was successful on 36 of 42 attempts, with all six unsuccessful efforts originating from 51 yards or greater distances.