Sunday’s NFL matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Commanders delivered more than just on-field drama. During the first half at AT&T Stadium, Cowboys placekicker Brandon Aubrey sent a kick veering out of bounds, leading to an unexpected incident on the sidelines. A member of the iconic Dallas Cowboys cheerleading squad was struck in the back of the head by the wayward football.
The surprising moment unfolded as the ball bounced toward the cheerleaders. A cameraman attempted to deflect its trajectory but was unsuccessful, resulting in the ball hitting the cheerleader, who some fans on social media identified as rookie Michelle Siemienowski.
Dallas Cowboys cheerleader hit by ball after Brandon Aubrey’s kick goes awry
Footage from the Fox broadcast showed the cheerleader momentarily falling to the ground after the collision. Teammates, as well as Washington Commanders punter Tress Way, quickly rushed to check on her. Moments later, she was seen sitting and smiling, indicating that she had recovered from the mishap.
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Siemienowski, a California native, joined the Dallas Cowboys cheerleading team in July 2024, fulfilling a lifelong dream. “This has been my dream for as long as I can remember,” she shared on Instagram. “This is only the beginning. I am so grateful to say that I achieved my dreams and earned my boots!”
Cowboys face offseason decisions after disappointing year
While the cheerleader’s recovery brought relief, the Cowboys faced a less optimistic outcome to their season. Finishing the year with a 7-9 record, Dallas now enters a pivotal offseason. Head coach Mike McCarthy’s future hangs in the balance as he nears the end of his contract.
McCarthy, who has been with the Cowboys since 2020, previously led the team to three consecutive playoff appearances. However, this season’s struggles may prompt significant changes for the franchise.
As fans reflect on the highs and lows of the season, Sunday’s unexpected sideline incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable moments that make football unforgettable. Whether it’s a game-changing play or an accidental collision, the action never truly stops.
