Dallas Cowboys Eyeing Defensive Reinforcements: A Closer Look
In the heart of Frisco, the Dallas Cowboys are making moves, and it seems like they're zeroing in on bolstering their linebacker corps. It's no secret that the Cowboys' roster could use a boost in this area, and it appears the team is well aware of this need.
Dallas made some attempts during Tier 1 NFL Free Agency, targeting standout linebackers like Nakobe Dean from the Eagles and Quay Walker from the Packers. Surprisingly, both players opted to join the Raiders instead, leaving Dallas still on the hunt for that key “green-dot” leader in their new “3-4 Hybrid” defense.
The search is far from over. Rumors are swirling, and the latest buzz involves the Miami Dolphins, who are in the midst of a major roster overhaul.
They've already parted ways with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and top receiver Jaylen Waddle. The next potential move?
Trading star linebacker Jordyn Brooks, last year’s tackles leader.
Dallas seems to be eyeing Brooks as a prime target. ESPN’s Todd Archer has hinted at the possibility, and Fort Worth Star-Telegram’s Nick Harris has added fuel to the fire, noting that the Cowboys are actively “discussing” a trade for Brooks. The Texas Tech alum notched an impressive 183 tackles in 2025, along with 3.5 sacks, making him a tantalizing prospect for Dallas.
But Brooks isn’t the only linebacker on the Cowboys’ radar. Houston Texans’ Azeez Al-Shaair is also in the conversation.
As a team captain and defensive stalwart, Al-Shaair would be a significant acquisition. The Texans might be willing to part with him given his contract situation, as he's in the final year of his deal.
Dallas has shown willingness to spend this offseason. They've already made headlines with the $11 million signing of safety Jalen Thompson and a $15 million per year deal for edge rusher Rashan Gary from Green Bay. Adding Brooks would mean a $10.8 million commitment for 2026, while Al-Shaair would cost $12.8 million this year.
What would it take to secure these deals? Perhaps the third-round pick recently acquired in the Osa trade to the Niners could be in play. There’s also talk of a creative swap involving Dallas trading down from pick No. 20 to Miami's pick No. 30, which equates to a third-round value.
So, what’s the message from the Jerry Jones-led Cowboys? While they’re not definitively committing to a linebacker acquisition before the NFL Draft, the fact that they’re actively “discussing” these possibilities is a promising start. The Cowboys are clearly on the hunt, and fans should keep their eyes peeled for what could be pivotal moves to strengthen their defense.