Miami Dolphins extend All-Pro linebacker Jordyn Brooks in 3-year deal

By Jessica Bennett — 21 July 2026 — 3 min read

Dolphins secure defensive cornerstone

The Miami Dolphins have reportedly reached a significant agreement with All-Pro linebacker Jordyn Brooks, signing him to a three-year extension valued at $51.3 million. This deal, which includes $35 million guaranteed, secures a key defensive player for the team as they navigate a period of roster changes. Brooks, who is 28 years old, was approaching the final year of his previous contract with the team in 2026.

Brooks has been a standout performer, particularly in the 2025 season where he led the NFL in combined tackles with 183 and solo tackles with 99. His exceptional play earned him a spot on the All-Pro first team and a Pro Bowl selection, marking the first time in his career he received these honors. His consistent presence around the ball has been a defining characteristic of his career.

Brooks’ impact and career trajectory

Before joining the Dolphins, Brooks was originally selected by the Seattle Seahawks as the 27th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a prominent player during his four years in Seattle. In 2021, while with the Seahawks, Brooks led the NFL in solo tackles, recording 109. He then signed with the Dolphins as a free agent prior to the 2024 NFL season.

Since arriving in Miami, Brooks has consistently led the team in tackles for the past two seasons. He has recorded over 140 tackles for two consecutive seasons and has achieved over 100 tackles for five straight seasons, demonstrating his sustained high level of performance. His strong first year with the team was followed by an even more impactful season in 2025.

Despite Brooks’ individual success, the Dolphins’ defense faced challenges in 2025, ranking 24th in points allowed per game and conceding an average of 24.9 points per contest to opponents. The team has made efforts to address defensive needs, including drafting cornerback Chris Johnson and linebacker Jacob Rodriguez in the second and third rounds, respectively, of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Team rebuilding and future outlook

The extension for Brooks comes as the Dolphins are undergoing a significant rebuilding phase. This offseason has seen the departure of several well-known players, including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, wide receivers Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill, pass rusher Bradley Chubb, and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. These moves indicate a strategic shift for the franchise.

However, the team has also focused on retaining key talent they view as foundational pieces for their new era under head coach Jeff Hafley and quarterback Malik Willis. Alongside Brooks, the Dolphins have also given notable extensions to center Aaron Brewer and running back De’Von Achane. Achane, like Brooks, signed a long-term extension this offseason, agreeing to a four-year deal worth $68 million.

The extensions for Brooks and Achane are seen as crucial steps in ensuring that both players remain core components of the team as the Dolphins aim to return to a winning trajectory. The team will also feature a new-look offense in 2026, led by free-agent signing Malik Willis at quarterback.

Source: ca.sports.yahoo.com