Analyzing the Continued Talks of Dolphins Trading Jordyn Brooks

It seems like every week, there is a new story or mention of the Miami Dolphins potentially trading linebacker Jordyn Brooks. Considering he has yet to receive a contract extension, those talks are likely to continue.

Brooks is in the final year of his deal, and Miami waiting until 2027 may be the proverbial writing on the wall regarding his being retained. There was also the addition of Jacob Rodriguez to consider.

That being said, the newest suggestion of the Brooks trade comes from ESPN's Aaron Schatz, who indicated the Dolphins should consider moving the linebacker before the start of the regular season. 

"Look, is there any point in the Dolphins keeping good players if their contracts end after the 2026 season? Brooks could possibly re-sign with Miami to be part of the rebuild. But he's likely gone, so the Dolphins should get something for him.

Brooks was a first-team All-Pro linebacker last season, leading the league with 183 total tackles and adding 3.5 sacks as a blitzer. He would be a useful addition for a team with a contending-quality offense but also a need at linebacker, perhaps the Bengals or Cowboys," Schatz wrote. 

Brooks has been linked to the Dallas Cowboys for months, which began when Miami was seemingly engaging in a fire sale during free agency, but releasing multiple players and trading Jaylen Waddle.

It would make sense that the Dolphins would have considered trading Brooks at that time, but a deal never transpired.

Brooks was the leading tackler in 2025 with 183 total tackles and 3.5 sacks, leading to his first All-Pro nod. His value is presumably at an all-time high, which would lead a team that needs a linebacker and defender of his caliber to offer some big draft capital.

Conversely, Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan called Brooks one of the building blocks for the team. Thus far, the building blocks mentioned are Aaron Brewer, De'Von Achane, Waddle, and Brooks. 

Brewer and Achane got their extensions, while Waddle was traded. Brooks has yet to receive any momentum on a trade or new deal.

Looking at the situation from a future standpoint, Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley indicated that the Miami roster would get younger and cheaper, which has also rung true thus far.

Brooks is 28, so he remains under what could be considered "old" in terms of NFL players. It is when the 30s hit that people believe the age of playing starts to hit.

Should the Dolphins extend Brooks on a three-year deal, he will be 31 when said deal runs its course. 

Another aspect to consider for Brooks is his leadership. He has stepped up in a big way as a captain for the Miami team, and was just on "Drive Time" speaking about just that. It would not make sense for Hafley to want a player who fits the mold of what he is seeking to be traded.

Granted, Sullivan is the leader in the front office and a deal would come from him, but he would likely consult Hafley on the decision.

There is no doubt that Brooks might draw some draft capital in the second or third round area, but he is the kind of player and leader who can help bond the Dolphins' defense in a big way.

While there is far more to look forward to in 2027 regarding draft picks and a better cap situation, I highly doubt that Miami would be willing to ship Brooks off instead of investing in him and the defense to see where the team can be next season.