Brooks has emerged as the most plausible veteran target amid the drafts and cap considerations. While he roams at times rather than being the green-dot play-caller the Cowboys may prefer, his fit as a run-stopping linebacker would bolster a run defense Dallas wants to tighten up. He posted strong numbers last season and has durability to match, traits that would appeal to a defense aiming to plug gaps quickly.
A plan has circulated to push a Jordyn Brooks trade by sending the Cowboys’ No. 92 pick to Miami in exchange for Brooks, with the possibility of including additional change and securing a long-term extension. The move would pair a ready-made veteran with an eye toward balancing the cap, as Brooks carries a significant 2026 cap hit that could be restructured through an extension.
Brooks is valued for his run-stopping prowess, having ranked among the league’s best in that area and leading the league in solo and total tackles in recent seasons. He has appeared in a high volume of games, underscoring his reliability. The Dolphins, in a phase of rebuilding, present a compelling opportunity to acquire him while managing the financials through a new deal.
In parallel with any Brooks pursuit, the Cowboys are expected to add a linebacker in the upcoming NFL draft. If they don’t trade up to target a top-rated prospect such as Sonny Styles, they could consider players like CJ Allen, Anthony Hill, or Jacob Rodriguez, potentially using No. 20 or trading back to address the position later in the first round or beyond.
Overall, Dallas faces a clear path: pursue a veteran to stabilize the middle while adding a developmental or ready-now option through the draft. Brooks stands out as a practical, low-risk option, and the club’s drafting strategy is likely to balance immediate impact with long-term flexibility as it closes the roster gaps at linebacker.
