Dolphins 2016 defensive tackle preview: Chris Jones

The Miami Dolphins claimed veteran defensive tackle Chris Jones off of waivers in April 2016. Jones is expected to be a backup and special teamer in 2016. 

Defensive tackle: Chris Jones

Chris Jones joined the Miami Dolphins in April 2016, when the team claimed him off waivers from the New England Patriots.  Jones is a 2013 graduate of Bowling Green State University, and is 6’1”, 295 pounds, and will be turning 26 years old on July 12.  According to an interview with Alain Poupart of the official Miami Dolphins website, Jones says he doesn’t have flashy moves, but is a hard working guy with a relentless attitude.  He and his father and grandmother were hardcore Miami Dolphins fans growing up in Ohio, so joining the team is a dream come true for Jones.

2016 preview

Jones will enter training camp as a backup, but since the team only carries 5 players for the 2 defensive tackle spots, and the team will be playing an aggressive, attacking style of defense, he will have the opportunity to play a lot of meaningful snaps if he can stay healthy.

Jones says that he has a relentless attitude, which he will need since he has the smallest stature of the Dolphins defensive tackles.

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2015 review

Jones did not play in 2015 due to a calf injury.

However, in 2013 and 2014, according to miamidolphins.com, as a rotational player for the Patriots, Jones started 11 games and 12 games, respectively, and made some plays.  He had 9 sacks and 40 tackles in those two seasons, so he seems to have ability.

2015 stats

None, due to calf injury.

Previous teams

Jones was the 198^th pick in the 2013 draft, when he was selected by the Houston Texans in the 6^th round.  The Texans released him in training camp, and Tampa Bay picked him up, only to release him after the 1^st game of the season.  New England claimed Jones, and he went on to have a nice season, finishing with 6 sacks and contributing on special teams.

According to NFL.com (http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/56502/SEA_Gamebook.pdf), Jones contributed 10 defensive plays and 4 special teams plays to the Patriots’ super bowl winning team, when they defeated the Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX (49).  (It has been rumored that Seattle coach Pete Carroll did not run the ball on the final play of that game because he feared that Jones would stuff Marshawn Lynch. Allegedly.)

2016 Forecast

With some luck and good health, Jones will contribute 2 sacks, 15 tackles, and provide a breather for the starters.