The Miami Dolphins' star linebacker Jordyn Brooks has been the subject of trade rumors, although nothing has been officially confirmed. Amid the speculation, the Cincinnati Bengals and the Dallas Cowboys have emerged as potential landing spots for the 28-year-old All-Pro.
Which Teams Are Interested in Jordyn Brooks?
While several teams have been linked to the popular linebacker, NFL insiders report that the Cincinnati Bengals and the Dallas Cowboys are actively eyeing him.
What Are Insiders Saying About the Trade Rumors?
Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport recently predicted that the Cincinnati Bengals could make a move for Brooks. Davenport noted, "The Cincinnati Bengals have been wildly aggressive this offseason, adding multiple pieces via free agency and trade. But the linebacker position remains a glaring weakness in the Queen City. Last year, Brooks led the league with 183 total tackles and was named a first-team All-Pro. If the Dolphins don't plan to re-up him, the time to trade the 28-year-old is now. And given Cincinnati's 'all-in' approach to upgrading the defense this year, a package of picks headlined by a second-rounder is a deal worth making."
FOX Sports' Greg Auman also suggested that the Dallas Cowboys could be a suitable destination. Auman wrote, "Brooks was a first-team All-Pro after leading the league with 183 total tackles last year, adding 3.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss, so he's a smart target for a linebacker-needy team. If it doesn't happen before the season, it feels inevitable he lands with a contender at the trade deadline. Dallas Cowboys, who need all the defensive upgrades they can get after last season..."
Contract Details and Salary Cap Implications
If Brooks is traded, his remaining $7.815 million base salary and $50,000 workout bonus would be cleared from the Dolphins' books, saving them approximately $7.865 million in 2026 cap space. The acquiring team would assume the remaining base salary and active roster bonuses, resulting in a cap hit of $7.865 million.
How Could the Trade Impact the Teams?
Miami Dolphins
Trading Brooks would leave a massive talent deficit at inside linebacker for the Dolphins.
Cincinnati Bengals
With roughly $10.8 million in cap space, trading for Brooks would be highly affordable. Acquiring him would add a physical, elite run-defender to help stop tough AFC North division rivals.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys have roughly $13.1 million in cap space, making Brooks relatively cheap. Adding him would fix the team's biggest defensive hole by getting an elite, fast run-stopper who immediately elevates them to a Super Bowl contender.
Potential Return
The Dolphins are reportedly holding out for a third-round selection, but a day-2 or early day-3 draft pick is considered a likely return.
