The Miami Dolphins inked running back De’Von Achane to a 4-year extension this week. But with linebacker Jordyn Brooks set to be an unrestricted free agent next spring, the team might not be done signing extensions with current players.
That’s what ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler strong suggested hours after Achane’s new deal.
“Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks also is a name to watch,” wrote Fowler on X. “Like Achane, he’s garnered trade interest but Miami values him.
“He’s a free agent after 2026.”
Before his extension Wednesday, Achane was set to be a free agent in March 2027 as well.
The Dolphins stripped their roster of most veterans this offseason. But like Achane, the team could make Brooks a priority.
The linebacker had been a reliable starter for years before last season. Then in 2025, he became a star, earning first-team All-Pro recognition for the first time.
Brooks posted a league-high 183 combined tackles, including 99 solos. He also had 13 tackles for loss, four quarterback hits, 3.5 sacks and three pass defenses.
Linebacker Jordyn Brooks the Next Dolphins Extension Candidate
With the amount of roster turnover this spring, a lot of pundits expected Miami to trade Achane and Brooks.
But even with a very young roster that could contend for a top draft pick next spring, the Dolphins would be smart to lock in a couple key veterans to help guide the inexperience on the rest of the team.
Achane will be that for Miami’s offense. It makes sense Brooks will do the same for the Dolphins defense.
Brooks has started at least 16 games each of the past five seasons. He began that streak with the Seattle Seahawks in 2021.
Before the 2024 campaign, Brooks joined the Dolphins. In his first season with the team, he posted 143 combined tackles, including 11 tackles for loss. At the time, the 11 tackles for loss was a career high.
Brooks surpassed that total in 2025. He didn’t make the Pro Bowl, indicating that he’s largely gone unnoticed by fans around the country.
But Brooks is clearly one of the best inside linebackers entering the 2026 season. Even with Brooks set to turn 29 in October, the Dolphins should want him signed long term.
How Much Could Brooks Be Worth on Contract Extension?
Spotrac has yet to make a projection on what Brooks could be worth on an extension in Miami. This fall, Brooks will be entering the final year of a $26.25 million deal.
If the linebacker makes the All-Pro team again, his price will rise. But his age will be a negative factor.
“The Texas Tech product will be entering his 30s in 2027, so it would make sense for the Dolphins to have some reservations about giving him another long term deal,” wrote ClutchPoints’ Troy Finnegan.
The Dolphins signed Achane to a 4-year, $68 million extension on Wednesday. Achane will only turn 25 years old in October.
Achane led the NFL with a 5.7 yards per carry average last season. He also had 1,350 rushing yards with 12 total touchdowns during his first Pro Bowl season.
The Dolphins will lead the NFL with about $179 million in dead cap during 2026. According to Spotrac, the team will also have $56.7 million in dead cap space for 2027. That could impact Miami’s decision with Brooks.
Dolphins LB ‘Name to Watch’ With Next Contract Extension in Miami: Report