Dallas’ pursuit of stability at linebacker hit a wall as the All-Pro tackle machine secured a massive extension, forcing Jerry Jones to look elsewhere for defensive help.
As part of their defensive overhaul this offseason, the Dallas Cowboys attempted to swing a trade for Miami Dolphins First-Team All-Pro linebacker Jordyn Brooks.
Jerry Jones and the Cowboys strengthened the secondary by drafting Caleb Downs and signing Jalen Thompson and Cobie Durant. They also reinforced the pass rush, trading for Rashan Gary while selecting Malachi Lawrence.
Linebacker, however, remained one area Dallas appeared interested in upgrading.
Brooks, a two-time NFL solo tackles leader (2021, 2025), ultimately signed a three-year, $51.3 million extension with the Dolphins, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter — effectively ending any chance of a move to the Cowboys.
The Cowboys have struggled to find consistency at linebacker since Leighton Vander Esch suffered a career-ending neck injury in 2023.
Since then, Dallas has trotted out the likes of Rashaan Evans, Markquese Bell, Damone Clark, Eric Kendricks, Logan Wilson, Kenneth Murray, Shemar James, DeMarvion Overshown (when healthy) and the list goes on and on...
As the roster is currently constructed, Overshown and offseason addition Dee Winters are projected to start at inside linebacker under first-year defensive coordinator Christian Parker, with rookie Jaishawn Barham also expected to earn opportunities.
Brooks was identified as the type of talent that could put an end to the revolving door that has been in effect since Vander Esch retired.
In 2025, the 28-year-old Dolphin finished with 183 total tackles (99 solo) — the second-highest mark of his career. Brooks ended the 2021 campaign as a member of the Seattle Seahawks with 184.
Four years separate the two seasons ... yet the production remained just as strong.
That's the kind of stability the Cowboys have been after and is exactly why they inquired about Brooks' availability.
Miami has undergone a complete overhaul over the last six months, installing a new front office, coaching staff and roster.
In January, the Dolphins hired former Green Bay Packers executive Jon-Eric Sullivan as general manager. Sullivan then tabbed his former defensive coordinator, Jeff Hafley, as head coach.
Since Sullivan and Hafley inherited a roster built by Miami's previous regime, there were many questions that instantly surrounded the Dolphins' biggest names.
Unfortunately for the Cowboys, Brooks appeared to be one of the few players Sullivan viewed as a long-term cornerstone.
While Miami moved on from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receiver Tyreek Hill and traded Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos, Brooks remained one of the franchise's untouchable pieces alongside running back De'Von Achane and center Aaron Brewer.
The three-year commitment ultimately closes the door on any realistic path for Dallas to land the First-Team All-Pro linebacker, but it may not end the Cowboys' search for help in the middle of their defense.
Dallas still has room to add experience at linebacker. It just won't be with a player of Brooks' caliber.
