END OF AN ERA: Brandon Aubrey Says Goodbye, Confirms Final Season with Detroit Lions as He Announces Shocking Move to Join the U.S. Space Force
June 22, 2025 | Detroit, MI
In a bombshell announcement that has left fans across the NFL stunned and inspired, Detroit Lions star kicker Brandon Aubrey has confirmed that the 2025 NFL season will be his final year in professional football. But the real twist? He’s not retiring to take up broadcasting, coaching, or business — he’s joining the United States Space Force.
The 29-year-old, known for his calm demeanor, razor-sharp precision, and unusual path to the NFL, revealed the news at an emotional press conference Monday morning inside Ford Field.
“This will be my last season in the National Football League,” Aubrey began, pausing to collect himself. “Starting in 2026, I will officially join the U.S. Space Force, where I’ve been accepted into a specialized training and technology program that focuses on aerospace navigation and tactical systems.”
With those words, Aubrey closed the door on one of the most fascinating athletic careers in recent NFL memory and opened a new chapter in the stratosphere — quite literally.
A Career Unlike Any Other
Brandon Aubrey’s journey to the NFL was already one for the history books. A former first-round pick in Major League Soccer, Aubrey played professional soccer before pivoting to football in his late 20s. He signed with the Dallas Cowboys in 2023 and quickly became a sensation, going perfect on field goals in his rookie year and earning All-Pro honors.
After two record-setting seasons in Dallas, he was acquired by the Detroit Lions in a surprise trade ahead of the 2025 season. Despite being new to the team, Aubrey was seen as the final piece in the Lions’ quest for a championship. Now, fans know that this will be his one and only season in Detroit.
“I gave everything I had to this game, and this game gave everything back,” Aubrey said. “But deep down, I’ve always had another calling — something I never talked about publicly until now.”
A Call Beyond the Gridiron
Aubrey revealed that his interest in aerospace technology and service began years ago, during his college days at Notre Dame. Though his athletic career took the spotlight, he maintained a passion for space exploration, science, and national service.
He began communicating with officials in the U.S. Space Force in early 2024 and quietly submitted an application for a specialized program that combines military training with innovation in orbital systems, satellite defense, and aerospace navigation.
“When they told me I had been accepted into the 2026 cohort, I knew I had to make a decision,” Aubrey said. “I love this sport, but I can’t pass up the chance to be part of something that will shape the future of our country — maybe even our planet.”
According to sources close to the family, Aubrey’s wife Claire and their two young sons will relocate with him to Colorado, where the Space Force is headquartered.
Lions and NFL React
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell spoke shortly after the announcement, praising Aubrey’s courage and leadership.
“Brandon came in here and showed the kind of professionalism and heart you don’t teach. We’re honored to be part of his final season, and we fully support his next chapter.”
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement as well, calling Aubrey’s decision “a rare and commendable commitment to a higher purpose,” and praising the kicker for serving as “an ambassador for excellence both on and off the field.”
Teammates were caught off guard by the news but rallied around Aubrey in support.
“Man’s gonna kick field goals on the moon
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