Another new arrival is expected in Miami’s secondary. The Dolphins have agreed to terms on a deal with safety DeShon Elliott, reports Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
The 25-year-old hit the open market for the first time in his career last offseason, following an injury-plagued start to his career in Baltimore.
Elliott flashed potential as a starting-caliber producer on the backend when healthy, though, making 109 tackles and adding 3.5 sacks in the three seasons he played with the Ravens.
That earned him a one-year deal from the Lions last April, with a value of $1.1M. The Texas alum’ market was hampered by his injury troubles, which cost him his entire rookie season.
His struggles defending the pass relative to his effectiveness as a run-stopper also limited his value on the open market. In his debut season in the Motor City, Elliott was a full-time starter across 14 games, the second-highest number of contests he has been able to suit up for in his NFL career.
The former sixth-rounder totaled a career-high 96 tackles with the Lions, adding one interception and a forced fumble. In terms of completion percentage (81.6%) and passer rating (125.3) allowed, however, Elliott had the worst season of his career to date.
In general, he was also a key member of a Lions defense which significantly hampered the team’s performance, and has already resulted in changes in the secondary.
In Miami, Elliott will join a defense which likewise was tapped for upgrades in the offseason. One has already taken place with the acquisition of All-Pro corner Jalen Ramsey, who should help new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio lead the team to a rebound on the backend.
Elliott will be joined by Jevon Holland and Brandon Jones near the top of the Dolphins safety depth chart as he makes his return to the AFC.
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