The Dallas Cowboys are still searching for answers at middle linebacker after missing on top free-agent targets Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker, both of whom signed with the Las Vegas Raiders.
With the position remaining a glaring weakness following another disappointing season, trade rumors have swirled around potential additions — but one high-profile name would reportedly get Dallas laughed out of the building if they pursued him.
Sep 28, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones looks on before the game against the Green Bay Packers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Sep 28, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones looks on before the game against the Green Bay Packers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Cowboys Trade Call on Azeez Al-Shaair Would Get a ‘Laugh’ from Texans – Report
Fort Worth Star-Telegram reporter Nick Harris noted that the Cowboys were in “discussions” about possible linebacker trades, specifically mentioning All-Pro Jordyn Brooks of the Miami Dolphins and Pro Bowler Azeez Al-Shaair of the Houston Texans. While Brooks makes some sense as a run-stuffing option, the reaction from Houston on the Al-Shaair front has been crystal clear.
Houston Chronicle Texans beat writer Jonathan Alexander put it bluntly on X:
“For what it’s worth, two things can be true. The Cowboys could very much be discussing Azeez Al-Shaair, and the Texans could very much hang up the phone and laugh.”
Alexander added that Al-Shaair is viewed as the “heart of the defense” in Houston — a player who helped carry the Texans to the divisional round and nearly the AFC Championship Game.
With a strong relationship with head coach DeMeco Ryans (dating back to their time together in San Francisco), Al-Shaair is considered untouchable despite entering the final year of his contract.
Cowboys Linebacker Need Remains Dire
The Dallas Cowboys badly need a middle linebacker who can play the “green dot” role, call plays, and stop the run. Missing out on Dean and Walker in free agency left a hole that wasn’t adequately filled in March. Trading for Al-Shaair was floated as a possibility, but the Texans’ stance makes it clear that any call from Dallas would likely be met with immediate dismissal — if not outright laughter.
Jordyn Brooks, on the other hand, appears to be a more realistic target. The former Seahawks and Dolphins linebacker led the NFL in solo tackles (99) and combined tackles (183) in 2025, ranking third in run-stop percentage per Pro Football Focus.
Miami is in salary-cap hell and focused on a rebuild, making Brooks — who has a $10.8 million cap hit in 2026 and is in the final year of his deal — a player they might actually listen to offers on.
Why the Cowboys’ Linebacker Search Is So Important
The Dallas Cowboys defense has struggled to stop the run and control the line of scrimmage in recent seasons. A true three-down middle linebacker who can handle coverage responsibilities, diagnose plays, and lead the unit is essential for new defensive coordinator Christian Parker to implement his vision. Without one, the Cowboys remain vulnerable — especially in the NFC East against mobile quarterbacks and strong rushing attacks.
Trading for Brooks would give Dallas a proven run-stuffer who could anchor the second level immediately. Pursuing Al-Shaair, however, looks like a non-starter based on Houston’s public stance.
For more Dallas Cowboys news, trade rumors, linebacker targets, and offseason updates, stay tuned.
Do you think the Cowboys should pursue Jordyn Brooks or look elsewhere at linebacker? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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