20 minutes before free agency kicked off, the Miami Dolphins re-signed safety Reshad Jones. Reportedly, it is a five year, sixty million dollar deal that includes $35 million guaranteed, as originally reported by Adamn Schefter. Jones has been part of the team since he was drafted in the fifth round of the 2010 NFL draft.
Dolphins giving S Reshad Jones a 5-year, $60 million ext that includes $35m gtd, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2017
Miami Dolphins Re-Sign Reshad Jones
Reshad Jones ten games during the 2016 season with a bad shoulder, but apparently rehab has been going well. The 2015 season was Jones’ best as a pro, recording 135 tackles, two sacks, five interceptions, and scoring twice. With the Miami Dolphins looking to become more competitive with Tom Brady, Bill Belichick, and the AFC East dominating New England Patriots, they’ll need to keep Jones around.
Jones has been consistently good over the last few seasons, grading extremely well with Pro Football Focus. Before he was injured, Jones was PFF’s sixth best safety with a grade of 88.5. He hasn’t had a grade lower than 86.9 over the last three years, and he should pick up right where he left off when he returns from injury.
The value of safeties has increased over the last few years. The likes of Earl Thomas, Harrison Smith, and Landon Collins have brough significance back to the position. This draft is full of powerful safety prospects, and Tony Jefferson was one of the first free agents signed. Jones is a cornerpiece of the Dolphins defense, and will look to help them get back to the post-season in 2017.
One thing is for sure, with the Patriots trading for Dwayne Allen and allegedly pursuing Brandon Cooks, the Dolphins will need all the defensive help they can get. It’ll be interesting to see how this changes their draft plans.
