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Dolphins Re-Sign Veteran Defensive Lineman

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jordan Woodson | Last updated Mar 20, 2025 10:41 AM ET

One day after signing two-time Super Bowl-winning linebacker Willie Gay Jr. from the New Orleans Saints, the Miami Dolphins are back at it again. This time, re-signing one of their defensive linemen.

As announced by the team on X (formerly Twitter), the Dolphins have re-signed defensive tackle Benito Jones.

Jones started 15 of the 17 games he played for Miami in 2024, totaling 24 tackles (nine solo), four tackles for loss, and six run stuffs. Those aren't lofty numbers on paper, but he was an important piece of Miami's defensive front.

He played collegiately at Ole Miss, finishing his four-year career with 132 tackles (66 solo), 10.5 sacks, 32 tackles for loss, and one interception. He went undrafted in the 2020 NFL Draft.

The Dolphins signed Jones as an undrafted free agent in 2020. During his first tenure in Miami, he bounced back and forth between the practice squad and the active roster.

After that, he played two seasons with the Detroit Lions, where he blossomed into the player he is today. In his final season in Detroit, Jones had a career-high 26 tackles (13 solo), one sack, and three run stuffs.

Since returning to Miami, Jones has filled an important role at nose tackle. His job is to eat up defenders and clog run holes, allowing those around him to make plays. His value goes far beyond his numbers.

For Miami, the return of Jones to their defensive front is one less position to worry about. Now they can turn their attention to more pressing needs like offensive line, defensive line, cornerback, and safety.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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