The Miami Dolphins have officially signed free agent cornerback Jack Jones, a move announced on Saturday. This decision comes in response to the recent injury of cornerback Artie Burns, who unfortunately tore his ACL. Jones, who started in 16 games for the Las Vegas Raiders last season, brings valuable experience to the team.
After being released by the Raiders on April 7, following unsuccessful trade attempts, Jones became a free agent. The Dolphins identified a pressing need for additional cornerback depth after Burns sustained his injury on the first day of training camp, according to sources speaking to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Following the injury, the Dolphins placed Burns on season-ending injured reserve, although they did not reveal the specific details of his injury.
The Miami Dolphins are actively working to reshape their cornerback lineup, especially after releasing Kendall Fuller and trading Jalen Ramsey earlier this offseason. With two starting cornerback positions now open, Jones will compete against fellow candidates such as Cam Smith, Ethan Bonner, Storm Duck, and Kendall Sheffield for a spot on the roster.
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel expressed confidence in the team's current group of cornerbacks but emphasized the organization's commitment to continuous improvement. In conjunction with the signing of Jones, Miami also added veteran cornerback Cornell Armstrong this week, while waiving cornerback Ryan Cooper Jr. as part of the roster adjustments.
During his time with the Raiders, Jack Jones played in a total of 24 games after being claimed off waivers in 2023, following his release from the New England Patriots. In the 2024 season, he achieved impressive career highs, recording 69 tackles, 16 passes defended, and 3 interceptions. However, he also faced challenges, allowing 698 yards, nine touchdowns, and a passer rating of 108.9 on 88 targets while serving as the nearest defender.
At 27 years old, Jack Jones was a fourth-round draft pick by the Patriots in 2022. Over the course of his three NFL seasons, he has accumulated a total of 7 interceptions, 27 passes defended, and 136 tackles in 42 games, with 21 of those as a starter. His tenure with New England was marred by off-field issues, including being benched for missing curfew prior to a game against Washington in 2023, which ultimately led to his release.
As the Miami Dolphins continue to refine their roster, the addition of Jack Jones could prove pivotal in their defensive strategy moving forward. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he integrates into the team's plans this season.
