Kicker Forced to Trade His Soccer Cleats for a Courtroom, But Can Cowboys Still Count On Him?

FRISCO, Texas (AP) — The likelihood of Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey donning his Cowboys gear to face off against the San Francisco 49ers this weekend may have seemed uncertain earlier this week. Following his initial absence from the team's first two practices due to unforeseen jury duty, fans were left holding their breath. However, in a surprise turn of events, the Cowboys organization has revealed that Aubrey is indeed expected to join his teammates in their much-anticipated matchup against the 49ers in San Francisco.

Though not a conventional substitute teacher or financial analyst, Brandon Aubrey, the soccer convert who found himself in the midst of the nation's most-watched NFL team, spent two eventful days participating in civic duty – his pre-game preparation plans temporarily getting the cold shoulder to learn what jury service entails.

Given Aubrey's last-minute participation in the practice sessions ahead of their game with the San Francisco side, he is working overtime to sync with his teammates and, more importantly, catch up on lost time with his special teams unit. Indeed, 'teamwork wins games' rings especially true now for the on-duty Texan cowboys battling under the crushing spotlight of sporting politics. It is this, yet again, that suggests the NFL is just more than football: it continues telling unassuming tales of sporting courage against impossible logistical obstacles, demanding one play – for your courtroom jury or for the roaring supporters – win the next game for you.