The Miami Dolphins have made waves by sending their star receiver to the Broncos, gaining a first-round pick in return. With the 30th overall pick now in their pocket, the Dolphins have some intriguing options ahead. But the offseason isn’t over yet, and there’s another move that could further shape their future.
By trading Jaylen Waddle, the Dolphins acquired not just a first-rounder but also third- and fourth-round picks, while sending their own fourth-round selection to Denver. This maneuver has left their receiving corps thin and the roster in a state of flux. With the rebuild in full swing, why not capitalize on this momentum and stockpile even more future draft capital?
Currently, the Dolphins have a few key players left on new head coach Jeff Hafley’s roster: running back DeVon Achane, center Aaron Brewer, and linebacker Jordyn Brooks. Achane and Brewer are crucial for putting points on the board and supporting newly signed quarterback Malik Willis, so they’re off the table. That leaves Brooks as a potential trade chip.
Jordyn Brooks, a former first-round pick by the Seahawks, has been a standout since joining Miami in 2024. His first season saw him tally 143 tackles and 11 tackles for loss. In his second year, he exploded with 183 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks, earning his first All-Pro honor.
However, at 28, Brooks is nearing the end of his prime, and with the Dolphins not expected to contend this year or next, trading him makes sense. Brooks is in the final year of a three-year, $30 million contract, and as an impending free agent, he’s unlikely to be re-signed.
Trading Brooks now, rather than risking injury before the trade deadline, could yield valuable picks for the 2026 NFL Draft. The Cowboys, with a need for a linebacker and the draft capital to make a deal, are a logical partner. They hold two first-round picks, No. 12 and No. 20, and could potentially part with one to acquire Brooks.
With the Dolphins already holding the 11th and 30th picks, adding another first-rounder could accelerate their rebuild. They’re eyeing Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson at No. 11, and with an additional pick, they could target offensive linemen like Francis Mauigoa or Spencer Fano, and still have room to bolster their defense.
This strategy aligns with the Dolphins’ apparent plan to focus on the 2027 draft, expected to be a strong class. Acquiring an extra first-round pick for 2027 would further propel their rebuilding efforts.
It’s set to be a challenging inaugural season for Coach Hafley, with the team projected to struggle. But if the Dolphins can hit on these draft picks, they might shave significant time off their rebuild and set the stage for future success.