Dolphins replace Jerome Baker with Seattle’s Jordyn Brooks

The Dolphins replaced linebacker Jerome Baker on Monday by agreeing to a deal with Jordyn Brooks, considered one of the better inside linebackers available in free agency.

Brooks’ deal was confirmed by a league source. It could be worth as much as $30 million over three years, or $26.3 million without incentives.

Brooks, 26, was a former first-round pick, selected 27th overall by Seattle in the 2020 NFL Draft, out of Texas Tech.

He had 111 tackles, 4.5 sacks, eight tackles for loss, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and an interception in 16 games, all starts, for Seattle last season.

He also had a solid 93.2 passer rating in his coverage area last year, but Pro Football Focus’ Ryan Smith said that overall he has been a “big-time liability in coverage,” allowing 202 receptions (in 243 targets) for 2160 yards and 12 TDs over his four NFL seasons.

After appearing in six games as a rookie in 2020, he became a Seahawks starter in 2021 and had 184 tackles that season, including a league-high 109 solo tackles, and 10 tackles for loss.

Brooks -- who is 6-0 and 240 pounds -- had 161 tackles, including three for loss, in 16 games in 2022.

Pro Football Focus rated him the 59th best player in this free agent class, with this comment:

“Brooks draws tough assignments in coverage, which knocks his grade a bit, but it also illustrates the trust this defense has in him. His ability to return by Week 1 of 2023 from a torn ACL suffered in Week 17 of 2022 was extremely impressive, and he posted career highs in pass-rush grade and coverage grade this season.

“Brooks is a three-down player who could continue to grow with improved health and experience.

“Perhaps it would be wise for Brooks to sign a shorter deal that enables him to get back on the market sooner for another bite at the apple, with more good play to put on tape another year removed from his torn ACL.”

Brooks becomes the clear front-runner to start at inside linebacker for Miami, alongside David Long Jr.

Anthony Walker Jr., who agreed to a one-year contract earlier in the day, likely will be a backup at inside linebacker. Duke Riley and Channing Tindall also remain under contract at the position.