Andrew Buller-Russ
Just like last offseason, the Dallas Cowboys have some decisions to make on a couple of their star players. George Pickens is coming off a career year, one that saw him earn his first trip to the Pro Bowl. But now he’s set for free agency, and the Cowboys intend to franchise tag him.
Meanwhile, another Cowboys star, All-Pro kicker Brandon Aubrey, is also set for free agency, and the team is having a hard time agreeing on his contract value.
According to the Dallas Morning News‘ Calvin Watkins, the Cowboys have already made Aubrey a strong contract offer, one that would make him the highest-paid kicker in NFL history. The Cowboys have reportedly offered Aubrey a contract worth roughly $7.5 million in annual salary. The NFL’s highest-paid kicker, Harrison Butker, is making about $6.4 million per season.
Meanwhile, Aubrey reportedly wants a salary in the $10 million range after earning Pro Bowl honors in all three of his seasons with the team. Although, the Cowboys likely knew a contract stalemate was coming with their kicker.
The two sides have apparently been negotiating an extension since before the 2025 season kicked off. Yet, Aubrey responded by having another strong season, making over 10 50+ yard field goals for the third time in his career, earning second-team All-Pro honors in the process.
Some would argue that Aubrey is the best kicker in the NFL. If not the best, he’s darn close. Thus, if the Cowboys aren’t willing to pay what Aubrey feels he’s worth, it’s possible his time in Dallas is limited.
For now, Aubrey is a restricted free agent, which gives the Cowboys the chance to match any offer that comes his way. Yet, if no long-term agreement is reached, Aubrey could hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent next offseason. With another excellent season, the Cowboys might have to watch another one of their star player’s values increase before sitting down at the negotiation table again.
Related: Dallas Cowboys ‘Open’ to Blockbuster Offer Involving Key Trade Asset
