As the new NFL season draws near, a wave of positive expectations is building around the Dallas Cowboys. This sense of hope feels familiar for a franchise long driven by owner Jerry Jones and his well-known enthusiasm for generating buzz.
Yet this year carries extra weight, centered on significant changes to a defense that struggled mightily in recent memory. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see whether these moves can help the team move past lingering disappointment from last year’s difficult decisions.
The Cowboys made a bold and controversial choice by trading star linebacker Micah Parsons just before the 2025 campaign began. That move left a noticeable gap in their defensive identity and contributed to one of the league’s most porous units. Allowing the highest point total in the NFL last season highlighted deep vulnerabilities across all three levels of the defense.
Now, Dallas has responded by bringing in fresh talent at multiple positions, aiming to rebuild confidence and competitiveness on that side of the ball.
Despite these efforts, questions remain about whether the defensive overhaul is truly finished. Some observers suggest one more strategic addition could provide the missing piece. Recent analysis from ESPN’s Aaron Schatz explored potential final offseason maneuvers for every team in the league, offering intriguing possibilities for roster tweaks even this late in the process.
In his breakdown for the Miami Dolphins, Schatz proposed accelerating their rebuilding timeline through a notable trade involving standout linebacker Jordyn Brooks. He identified the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cowboys as logical landing spots that could benefit from Brooks’ proven skills while helping Miami gain valuable assets in return.
“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 enters the upcoming season in the final year of his current deal, fresh off a standout campaign that saw him post career-high numbers. Leading the entire league with 183 tackles demonstrates his reliability and productivity in the middle of the field. Adding 3.5 sacks as a pass-rushing contributor further underscores his versatility.
For Miami, trading him now could represent an opportunity to maximize his market value before he potentially tests free agency next spring and secures a lucrative long-term contract elsewhere.
The Dolphins have publicly highlighted three key building blocks in running back De’Von Achane, guard Aaron Brewer, and Brooks. Achane and Brewer have already received substantial contract extensions, locking them in as foundational pieces for the future. Brooks, however, has not yet reached a similar agreement, creating uncertainty about his long-term place in South Florida.
From the Cowboys’ perspective, pursuing another high-caliber linebacker raises important considerations about resource allocation. Dallas has already committed meaningful draft capital to the position this offseason.
They acquired Dee Winters in a trade involving a fifth-round selection, positioning him as the projected starter on the weak side. Later, they used a third-round pick on Jaishawn Barham, who is expected to contribute regularly while also handling significant special-teams duties.
Veteran presence and depth come from 2023 third-round selection DeMarvion Overshown as well. Many within the organization view him as ready for a major step forward after limited availability in 2025 due to injuries. His potential breakout could solidify the linebacker corps without additional external moves.
Still, if internal evaluations of Overshown prove less optimistic than public comments suggest, interest in a player of Brooks’ caliber might intensify. At this stage, such a trade does not appear imminent for Dallas. Yet the idea lingers as an intriguing option should the right opportunity arise to bolster an already improving defense.
Overall, the Cowboys enter this season with renewed belief that their defensive investments can yield better results. Whether they stand pat or explore one final splash remains to be seen, but the foundation for progress is clearly in place.
