The Miami Dolphins signed defensive tackle John Jenkins to a one-year deal on Friday. Jenkins, who was an unrestricted free agent, played with the Chicago Bears during the 2020 season. He participated in 11 games during that tenure, tallying 21 tackles and one pass breakup.
The DT will officially qualify as the oldest player under contract on the Dolphins roster at the age of 31. However, that’s not the only significant factor about this deal. Despite his past time in the Sunshine State being short-lived, Jenkins played for Miami in 2019. The 29-year-old participated in all 16 games for the Dolphins, starting on five different occasions. During that period of time, he recorded 34 combined tackles, one pass breakup and one sack.
But in 93 games (28 starts) over eight seasons, the former third-round pick has combined for 176 tackles (eight for loss) and 2.5 sacks.
For now, it’s all about whether Jenkins has what it takes to make the Dolphins roster. He’s not a necessary acquisition, as Miami already has the likes of Christian Wilkins, Zach Sieler, Raekwon Davis and Adam Butler. Even if he does so happen to make the team, don’t expect his playing time to be through the roof. He’s getting older by the day and injuries could present themselves as a significant factor in his playing time.
However, due to experience, having John Jenkins for 2021 could be interesting.