India, July 21 -- The Miami Dolphins have secured one of the cornerstones of their defense by signing linebacker Jordyn Brooks to a three-year contract extension worth $51.3 million, including $35 million guaranteed, according to reports. The deal comes as general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan continues to lock in key leaders for a young roster, following the recent extension handed to center Aaron Brewer.

Before Brooks committed his future to Miami, reports suggested the Dallas Cowboys had explored the possibility of acquiring the standout linebacker as part of their offseason defensive rebuild. While Dallas strengthened its secondary and pass rush through trades and the draft, linebacker remained an area of focus. However, Brooks' new deal...