The Miami Dolphins reportedly informed veteran corner Byron Jones that he is being released. The move was likely motivated by the Dolphins’ salary cap constraints, considering they were $17.7 million over the limit before making a move.
Jones was set to enter the fourth year of his five-year, $82 million contract. By designating him post-June 1 release, the Dolphins will get $13.6 million cap relief.
Jones didn’t play at all in 2022, recovering from Achilles surgery he underwent last offseason. Earlier this month, the 30-year-old posted a series of tweets in which he criticized the nature of the game and the resulting injuries. This caused speculations about his intentions to retire from football, although ESPN reports that the veteran still wants to continue playing in NFL.
By moving away from Jones, the Dolphins will most likely try to secure a corner through the draft or via free agency. They could also opt to give an extended look to second-year cornerback Kader Kohou and five-year veteran Keion Crossen, who stepped in for Jones in 2022.
Byron Jones was drafted into the league in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He spent five years in Dallas, earning a Pro Bowl nod and one All-Pro selection. In 2020, Miami made him the highest-paid corner in the league but failed to get much return on their investment. Jones played a total of 30 games with the Dolphins, contributing with 75 tackles, 15 passes defended, and two interceptions.
