The Dallas Cowboys were a defensive disaster in 2025, finishing as the worst unit in the entire NFL. Opponents ran through them as if they were open highways. There were no defensive linemen or linebackers capable of slowing down rival rushing attacks.
That reality led to the dismissal of defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, who lasted just one season in charge. Shortly afterward, the team announced the hiring of Christian Parker, who arrives from Philadelphia but without prior experience as a defensive coordinator.
The move appears to be a risky gamble, but if it pays off for Jerry Jones, it will be widely praised.
During this offseason and amid free agency, Jones continues searching for the best available talent to strengthen his roster and move away from the embarrassing last-place finish of 2025.
For that reason, he is focused on reinforcing the linebacker position. One of the options previously mentioned at The Star was Pittsburgh Steelers player Patrick Queen. However, he is not the only name under consideration, as several others have caught the attention of Dallas’ front office.
That possibility fell through, prompting the Cowboys to quickly look for alternatives.
They’ve pivoted off Queen. Al-Shaair & Brooks are being discussed, though.
Star Telegram’s Nick Harris reported via X.
Jordyn Brooks emerges as an option for Dallas
Jerry has identified Miami’s Jordyn Brooks as a potential addition for Dallas. The defensive player carries significant value and could provide strong support for the franchise. His 240-pound frame could arrive in Dallas to help the team become competitive again.
It is worth noting that the Cowboys have now gone two consecutive seasons without reaching the postseason, and they finished last defensively in 2025. It is both urgent and necessary for them to find new players who can guarantee improvement.
- 143 tackles
- 83.0 PFF
- 77.5 pass rush mark
- 183 combined tackles
- 3.5 sacks
- 92.4 run defense grade
- 90.3 tackling grade 75.0 PFF pass rushing
While he may not represent a complete solution, he could become an important piece for the Cowboys, who would undoubtedly benefit from an upgrade compared to their disastrous 2025 performance.
Another player Dallas should consider is Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair. At 28 years old, he could become a key contributor for Christian Parker’s anticipated 3-4 defensive scheme.
- 103 total tackles
- 9 pass deflections
- 2 interceptions
- 1 forced fumble
- 1 recovery
While the Cowboys could always add another pass rusher or another cornerback to fill out those positions, there is one major thing missing: a middle linebacker.”…”Somebody to call the defense and wear the ‘green dot’ on his helmet.
Todd Archer of ESPN stated.
What Dallas needs may well be found in one of these two players, or both, as they aim to return to prominence.
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