Cowboys Coach Brian Schottenheimer Stands Firm Behind Brandon Aubrey After Vikings Loss

A Rare Emotional Defense
Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer is known for his composed, measured approach in press conferences. Typically calm and deliberate, he lets performance on the field speak louder than words. But after a tense 34–26 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, Schottenheimer broke from his usual restraint to deliver a passionate defense of rookie kicker Brandon Aubrey—a player who had become the target of harsh criticism following two missed field goals in a crucial matchup.

Amid the social media backlash, Schottenheimer made one thing clear: Aubrey would not be made a scapegoat for the team’s shortcomings.

“What’s happening to Brandon right now is completely unfair,” Schottenheimer said, his tone sharp and unwavering. “This is a kid who’s been money for us all year. He’s come in, done everything we’ve asked, worked like a pro, and kept us in a lot of football games. One tough night doesn’t erase that.”

Highlighting Aubrey’s Consistency
Schottenheimer did not stop at defending Aubrey’s performance in a single game. He stressed the rookie’s consistent contribution throughout the season.

“People are acting like he hasn’t been one of our most reliable players,” he continued. “Drives stall, offenses sputter—Brandon’s been the one putting points on the board and giving us a chance week after week. He has one bad game, and suddenly he’s the problem? That’s not how this works. Not in this building.”

The coach emphasized that the kicker’s preparation, discipline, and mental toughness are rarely visible to the fans watching on Sunday.

“Brandon is the first guy on the field, last one off,” Schottenheimer said. “He’s constantly working with the snapper and holder, constantly studying film, constantly holding himself to a standard most guys don’t even talk about. And you saw it again tonight—he stood there, answered every question, took all the blame on his shoulders. That’s what a pro looks like.”

A Message About Team Accountability
Beyond defending Aubrey, Schottenheimer used the moment to remind fans and media alike about accountability across the entire team.

“We lost that game—and we came up short this season—as a team,” he said. “Coaches, offense, defense, special teams. If you’re looking for someone to blame, start with me. I’m the head coach. But if you’re a Dallas Cowboys fan, you don’t turn on Brandon Aubrey after one night. You stand behind him the way he’s stood up for this team all year.”

Locker Room and Social Media Support
The coach’s comments quickly spread through the locker room and across social media. Teammates publicly rallied behind Aubrey, sharing quotes and messages of support. It was a moment that reinforced the culture Schottenheimer is building: one of loyalty, respect, and collective responsibility.

In a season where the Cowboys have faced intense pressure and scrutiny, Schottenheimer’s defense of his kicker was more than just a soundbite. It was a statement about how the team—and its fanbase—should treat those who work tirelessly behind the scenes and deliver consistently, even if they stumble once.

Trust Earned, Trust Maintained

For Brian Schottenheimer, Brandon Aubrey is more than a kicker who had an off night. He is a player who has earned the trust of his coaches and teammates through dedication, hard work, and professionalism. And according to the head coach, that trust is unwavering.

“Brandon Aubrey isn’t just a kicker who had a bad night,” Schottenheimer concluded. “He’s one of the guys who earned their trust. And as far as his head coach is concerned, that trust isn’t going anywhere.”

The Cowboys now move forward with clarity and unity, a reminder that leadership isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about standing up for the people who make the team tick.