Full Breakdown
Dallas Cowboys Pursue Linebacker Jordyn Brooks Amid Defensive Overhaul
3/22/2026, 2:17:03 AM
The Need for a Middle Linebacker
The Dallas Cowboys are actively seeking to strengthen their defense after a disappointing 2025 season, where they finished with one of the worst defensive records in the NFL. General Manager Jerry Jones has emphasized the need for improvement, stating, “Had we played a lick of defense last year, we would've had ourselves, I think, a real playoff run.” To address this, the Cowboys have made several moves in free agency, including trading for edge rusher Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers and signing safety Jalen Thompson. However, a significant gap remains at the middle linebacker position, which the team has yet to fill.
Trade Talks for Jordyn Brooks
Recent reports indicate that the Cowboys are focusing on Miami Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks as a potential trade target. Brooks, who led the NFL with 183 tackles in 2025 and earned first-team All-Pro honors, is seen as a player who could significantly enhance the Cowboys' defensive capabilities. The Dolphins are currently undergoing a rebuild, having traded away several key players, including wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. This context makes Brooks, who has a $10.8 million cap hit in 2026, a viable candidate for trade.
Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram noted that the Cowboys have shifted their focus from Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen to Brooks and Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair. The Cowboys are reportedly willing to offer a Day 3 draft pick, potentially a fourth or fifth-round selection, to acquire Brooks.
The Case for Brooks
Brooks' performance in the 2025 season showcased his ability as a tackling machine and a strong run defender, with a Pro Football Focus (PFF) run defense grade of 92.0, ranking him third among linebackers. His experience and leadership qualities make him an attractive option for the Cowboys, who are looking for a player to wear the "green dot" and lead the defense. However, the Dolphins may be hesitant to part with Brooks, as he is viewed as a key component of their future plans.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite the potential benefits of acquiring Brooks, there are concerns regarding his contract situation and whether he would be a long-term fit for the Cowboys. Some analysts suggest that trading for Brooks could be seen as a short-term solution, given his age and the fact that he is entering the final year of his contract. Additionally, the Cowboys have other linebacker options, such as Azeez Al-Shaair, who also had a strong 2025 season with 103 tackles.
What's Next
As the Cowboys continue to explore trade options, they must weigh the immediate need for a middle linebacker against the long-term implications of such a move. With the NFL Draft approaching, the Cowboys hold two first-round picks, which could also be used to address their linebacker needs if a trade does not materialize. The coming weeks will be critical as Dallas seeks to finalize its roster ahead of the 2026 season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Had we played a lick of defense last year, we would've had ourselves, I think, a real playoff run.” — Jerry Jones, Owner, Dallas Cowboys
- “They’ve pivoted off [Patrick] Queen. [Azeez] Al-Shaair & [Jordyn] Brooks are being discussed though,” — Nick Harris, Reporter, Fort Worth Star-Telegram
In summary, the Dallas Cowboys are in pursuit of linebacker Jordyn Brooks as part of their defensive overhaul, but the outcome of these trade discussions remains uncertain as the Dolphins navigate their rebuilding phase.
