The Detroit Lions didn't need reassurance on their massive investment in Jack Campbell this offseason. He's widely touted as one of the NFL's best off-ball linebackers and isn't even in his prime yet.
However, just in case there were any doubts over Campbell's megadeal, the Miami Dolphins provided solace. The reported terms of their contract extension with Jordyn Brooks are a welcome, albeit unwarranted, development for the Lions.
Brooks and the Dolphins reached agreement on a three-year, $51.3 million contract extension with $35 million guaranteed (h/t ESPN's Adam Schefter). He suddenly becomes the league's fifth-highest-paid inside linebacker by average annual salary. His efforts on the field certainly merit the lofty raise — but that doesn't mean it should make the Lions feel better about rewarding Campbell.
Lions can find comfort in Jack Campbell contract from Dolphins' Jordyn Brooks extension
Again, Brooks is a very talented player deserving of an expensive price tag. He's an incredibly productive, well-rounded contributor who can make a high-level impact in several ways. His impressive sideline-to-sideline speed, playmaking and leadership qualities make him a greatly valuable asset.
On the other hand, though, Brooks turns 29 in October. His age complicates matters for a Dolphins club in the early stages of a rebuild. He'll be over the hill by the time they're truly ready to compete, contrary to where Detroit finds itself with Campbell.
Campbell, who's entering his age-26 campaign, is only reaching the apex of his career for a squad with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations. He's a rising star for a franchise with completely different expectations. The Lions locked him up to help maximize their current championship window and be a cornerstone for the foreseeable future.
It's great to see Campbell and Brooks be compensated accordingly after each earning All-Pro First Team honors at the LB spot in 2025. Both of them deserved to cash in, which isn't something that can be said for many who line up where they do on the field.
Fair or not, Campbell and Brooks don't man a premium position. The truth of the matter is that their value is relative to the market; nevertheless, Detroit got a bargain given the circumstances.
Frankly, it wouldn't be shocking to see Brooks finish out his new pact with another team. He doesn't move the needle in South Beach but can be a game-changer for an organization that's chasing a title. Miami may ultimately benefit from trading him for a return that aligns with their timeline
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This article was originally published on sidelionreport.com as Lions star Jack Campbell's price tag looks even better after Dolphins' daring move.