The NFL free agency period is rapidly approaching, and already, the potential movement of Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey is generating significant discussion. Even as Aubrey himself has denied reports of seeking a record-breaking contract, the attention surrounding his value underscores a growing appreciation for the impact a reliable kicker can have on a team’s success. Analyst Nick Wright, a self-described Kansas City Chiefs fan, believes Aubrey is so valuable that opposing teams should prioritize signing him over even needed wide receivers, and is willing to suggest a deal that would redefine the kicker market.
Wright, speaking on Wednesday’s episode of FS1’s First Things First, expressed concern that the Denver Broncos, Baltimore Ravens, or Buffalo Bills acquiring Aubrey would be a significant blow to the Chiefs’ competitive edge. “I would be way more bummed out, as a Chiefs fan, if any of those teams got [Brandon] Aubrey than if they got [George] Pickens, and they all need wide receivers,” Wright said. He elaborated, stating that the difficulty in finding a player of Aubrey’s caliber makes him a more valuable target.
Aubrey’s Value: A “Mahomes Deal” for a Kicker?
Wright didn’t stop at simply identifying Aubrey as a priority. He proposed a contract that would be unprecedented for a kicker: a 10-year, $75 million deal with $50 million guaranteed. He termed it “the kicker version of the Mahomes deal,” referencing the massive contract extension signed by Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Currently, the highest-paid kicker in the NFL is Harrison Butker of the Chiefs, earning $6.4 million per year, according to Wright. Aubrey’s potential contract would more than double that figure.
The rationale behind Wright’s bold proposal stems from Aubrey’s demonstrated leg strength and accuracy. He currently owns two of the longest kicks in NFL history – a 64-yarder and a 65-yarder – showcasing a range that few kickers possess. Only Justin Tucker and Jacksonville Jaguars’ kicker Cam Little have recorded longer field goals, highlighting Aubrey’s elite company. This ability to consistently convert from long distances provides a significant advantage in close games and can dramatically alter field position.
Cowboys and Aubrey: Negotiations and Denials
While Wright’s hypothetical contract has sparked debate, the reality of Aubrey’s negotiations with the Cowboys is unfolding. Reports surfaced on Wednesday, February 26, 2026, indicating that Aubrey’s camp had turned down a $7.5 million per year offer from Dallas – a figure that would already have established a new record for kickers. These reports suggested Aubrey was seeking a deal closer to $10 million annually. However, Aubrey quickly refuted these claims via social media, calling the reports “Fake” in a comment on an Instagram post from Cowboys-affiliated 105.3 The Fan. His wife, Jenn Aubrey, echoed the denial in a separate post, and his agent, Todd France of Athletes First, acknowledged the “misinformation” spreading during the NFL combine. Yahoo Sports reported on the denials.
Despite the conflicting reports, Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones has acknowledged that negotiations with Aubrey have been ongoing since before the 2025 season. “We’ve been in talks with Aubrey since before the season started. That’s been a journey,” Jones stated. “We haven’t been able to acquire to a point where we can all agree so it hasn’t gotten done, but we’d love to get him done.”
The Changing Kicker Landscape
Aubrey’s situation reflects a broader shift in how NFL teams are valuing the kicker position. For years, kickers were often overlooked in free agency, with relatively modest contracts being the norm. However, the increasing importance of field position and the potential for game-winning kicks have led teams to recognize the value of a reliable leg. The fact that Aubrey is poised to surpass Harrison Butker’s $6.4 million annual salary demonstrates this evolving landscape. The Cowboys’ negotiations with Aubrey, and the interest from other teams as highlighted by Wright, signal that the market for top-tier kickers is on the rise.
The coming weeks will be crucial as Aubrey and the Cowboys continue negotiations. The outcome will not only determine Aubrey’s future but too set a new benchmark for kicker contracts across the league. Whether he ultimately receives a “Mahomes deal” for a kicker remains to be seen, but the attention surrounding his situation underscores the growing importance of the position in the modern NFL.
The NFL free agency period officially begins on March 11, 2026, and will provide a clearer picture of Aubrey’s future. Further updates on the negotiations between Aubrey and the Cowboys are expected in the coming days. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see how this high-stakes contract dispute unfolds.
What do you suppose? Will Brandon Aubrey command a record-breaking contract? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow NFL fans.
Keep reading
