One of the few positives the Miami Dolphins took from their 2012 campaign was the emergence of safety Reshad Jones, who led the team in interceptions and became a force in both run defense and coverage.Now, the fourth-year defensive back looks to prove he wasn't a one-year-wonder.
“I got the ball rolling in the right direction and I just told myself I want to be recognized as one of the premiere safeties in this league," Jones said recently, according to the team's website. "I think last year I went out and showed that to the world and I just want to keep it going.”
Jones, after a couple of seasons bouncing around the depth chart, blossomed into one of the Dolphins' most consistent playmakers in his third NFL season. He was third on the team in tackles, forced two fumbles and recorded a sack, to go along with his four interceptions.
He was Pro Football Focus' third ranked safety on the season and ranked in the top five in both overall coverage and run defense. Jones also allowed just a 38.0 passer rating when thrown at, which was tops among all starting safeties.
If the former fifth-round pick out of the University of Georgia can continue his progress, he could be a cornerstone for the Dolphins' secondary for years to come.
At least one of his coaches believes Jones will live up to that billing.
“I think he’s going to be a very, very good player in this league for a long time,” defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle said.
The 27-year-old safety is scheduled to become a free agent after this season, potentially putting the team in a predicament if the Jones' stellar play continues. Miami will have the franchise tag at it's disposal, but both parties will be best served if an extension can be reached.
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