The Dallas Cowboys have been connected to a potential trade for Miami Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks, which would go a long way toward filling one of the club’s biggest defensive holes before the 2026 season. Brooks is heading into the final year of a three-year, $26.25 million deal and a recent proposal has the Cowboys sending former first-round tackle Tyler Guyton and a 2027 seventh-round pick to Miami for Brooks.
| Category | Details |
|---|
| Player | Jordyn Brooks |
| Current Team | Miami Dolphins |
| Rumored Team | Dallas Cowboys |
| Contract Status | Final year of three-year, $26.25 million deal |
| Salary Cap Hit | Final contract year (exact cap figure not disclosed) |
| Trade Likelihood | Moderate |
| Latest Insider Update | Proposal involves Tyler Guyton and a 2027 seventh-round pick |
| Potential Return | Tyler Guyton and 2027 seventh-round selection |
Which teams are interested in Jordyn Brooks?
While no widespread market has emerged publicly, Dallas is the team most prominently connected with Brooks through recent trade speculation.
The Cowboys have questions at linebacker after struggling defensively last season, allowing an NFL-high 30.1 points per game. Brooks would immediately strengthen the middle of the defense alongside DeMarvion Overshown while adding proven production and experience.
The proposed deal is driven by Dallas' willingness to explore changes on the offensive line. Tyler Guyton, selected in the first round in 2024, endured a difficult 2025 campaign. According to Pro Football Focus, he posted a 57.5 overall grade across more than 650 snaps, ranking 71st among 89 qualified tackles.
His pass protection proved especially concerning after surrendering 31 pressures, two sacks and six quarterback hits.
Dallas also appears to have contingency plans if Guyton is moved. Fourth-round rookie Drew Shelton provides developmental depth, while Nate Thomas offers experience as another tackle option.
What insiders are saying about the trade rumors
The latest proposal comes from FanSided's Wynston Wilcox, who believes Dallas may wait before making any move.
Wilcox wrote,
"The Cowboys are going to see what their young players do through the preseason and evaluate if it's worth turning to more stability. Once they're hovering around a playoff spot, they'll make a desperate move and that feels like this."That approach would allow the Cowboys to evaluate Guyton's progress before deciding whether moving on from a recent first-round investment makes football sense.
Miami's position could also influence negotiations. Brooks is coming off an outstanding season with an NFL-leading 183 tackles, along with 3.5 sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss. Reports indicate Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan is willing to listen to offers as Miami looks to get younger.
Contract details and salary cap implications
Brooks is entering the final season of the three-year, $26.25 million contract he signed with Miami. His expiring deal gives any acquiring team flexibility, as they would not be committing to a long-term financial obligation immediately.
There have been no reports of a no-trade clause limiting a potential move. For Dallas, acquiring Brooks would be a short-term investment while preserving the option to negotiate a contract extension after the season if the fit proves successful.
Moving Guyton would also remove a young player still on his rookie contract, but Dallas would be giving up cost-controlled talent for immediate defensive help.
How the trade could impact both teams
For Dallas, adding Brooks would strengthen a defense that struggled throughout 2025. His tackling ability and experience could stabilize the linebacker group and reduce pressure on the front seven as the Cowboys chase a playoff return.
Miami, meanwhile, would receive a former first-round offensive tackle with long-term upside. If the Dolphins believe Guyton can develop with a change of scenery, the trade could address an important position while aligning with their reported goal of building a younger roster.
Whether Dallas ultimately parts with a recent first-round selection remains the biggest question. Brooks would represent an immediate upgrade, but moving on from Guyton after just two seasons would require confidence that his long-term ceiling no longer matches the Cowboys' plans.