By Jake Boals | May 26, 2026
Miami’s star linebacker is a hot commodity, but does moving him now make sense for the team’s future?
Key Points
- Jordyn Brooks is elite: The NFL’s leading tackler in 2025, Brooks has proven to be one of the league’s best linebackers, but his future in Miami is uncertain.
- Dolphins’ retooling phase: With a youth movement underway, GM Jon-Eric Sullivan may look to move Brooks, who is entering the final year of his contract, for draft capital or young assets.
- The Dallas connection: The Cowboys, a team on the verge of contention, are rumored to have interest in Brooks as they look to solidify their inside linebacker corps.
Brooks: A Tackling Machine
When the Dolphins signed Jordyn Brooks in 2025, they knew they were getting a player who could anchor their defense. What they didn’t know was that he’d immediately become the NFL’s leading tackler, racking up 143 stops, including 99 solo tackles and 3.5 sacks.
Brooks was a bright spot in a challenging season for Miami. His ability to sniff out plays, cover ground sideline-to-sideline, and lead by example made him an instant fan favorite.
But the NFL is a business, and the Dolphins find themselves at a crossroads.
Why Miami Might Move Brooks
Under GM Jon-Eric Sullivan, the Dolphins have embarked on a retooling phase, shifting their focus to younger talent and long-term sustainability. Recent moves — like extending De’Von Achane and drafting linebacker Jacob Rodriguez in the second round — suggest that Miami is building for the future.
Brooks, who will be a free agent in 2027, doesn’t fit neatly into that timeline. While he’s still in his prime, the Dolphins may not want to commit to a lucrative long-term extension for a player who will be 29 by the time their young core hits its stride.
Trading Brooks now could yield significant draft capital or young players, helping Miami accelerate their rebuild.
The Dallas Connection
One team that seems like an obvious trade partner is the Dallas Cowboys.
The Cowboys have been aggressive this offseason, upgrading their secondary, edge rush, and linebacker depth. But their inside linebacker group, led by DeMarvion Overshown and Dee Winters, lacks a proven star.
Brooks would immediately elevate their defense, and his expiring contract makes him a low-risk, high-reward acquisition for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
For Miami, Dallas could offer a package of draft picks or young players that aligns with their long-term vision. It’s a win-win scenario for both franchises.
What Miami Stands to Gain
Trading Brooks would undoubtedly be a tough pill for Dolphins fans to swallow. He’s a proven star and a leader on the field. But the potential upside is hard to ignore:
- Draft capital: Miami could secure premium picks, giving them more ammunition to build around their young core.
- Cap flexibility: Moving Brooks’ contract would free up space to address other needs in the future.
- Development opportunities: Trading Brooks would open up playing time for younger linebackers like Jacob Rodriguez, accelerating their development.
Jordyn Brooks has been nothing short of exceptional since joining the Dolphins, but his future in Miami is uncertain.
If the front office believes this team is still a year or two away from contending, trading Brooks now might be the smartest move. It’s a chance to capitalize on his value while aligning the roster with the team’s long-term goals.
For Dolphins fans, it’s a bittersweet proposition. Brooks has been a warrior for Miami, but sometimes the right move for the future means making tough decisions in the present.
The Cowboys are calling. Will Miami pick up the phone?
— Dolphins Insider | Coverage powered by ESPN, NFL.com, SI.com, Fox Sports, and Yahoo Sports
