Not even a player like Reshad Jones can be above the team.
Reshad Jones displayed that he can be a unique play-maker last season.
Even though #20 is one of the best players on the Dolphins; even though he is one of the best players in the NFL; even though he is one of my favorite players; Miami can’t bow to Reshad Jones.
First, I do believe his $1mill guaranteed each of the next two seasons is low. Not low for most of us, but in relation to those who are at the top of their craft of NFL Safeties, it is. The way he plays and the position he plays lends towards injury. I am not saying Miami shouldn’t put something in the kitty for him. But, every player and their agent are sharks in the water, watching and waiting to see if blood comes from this new regime.
Miami can not offer a mega-contract extension, as he is reportedly looking for. The precedent would be set, and it wouldn’t be a good one.
If he had put two exceptional seasons together. If he had one year left in his contract. If he hadn’t decided to kick this new regime right between the legs. If all those ifs were in play, then it would be a different story said the pay per head bookie site. But, they aren’t.
Top-flight regimes are never taken hostage, even by great players like Reshad Jones.
Miami is looking to be a top-flight regime. This new regime is looking to have control, order, and strength. None of this would be true if they simply cow-tailed to Reshad Jones demands.
For a franchise that’s looking to turn the corner and needs a good draft to do it, Reshad Jones’ timing couldn’t be worse.
Reshad Jones proved last year that he can be special, maybe all time special. But, championships aren’t won by a single player.
Miami Dolphins’ defense wouldn’t be the same without him. As a fan, Sunday’s wouldn’t be as bright without him. But, this isn’t about the defense. This isn’t about a great player. Heck, this isn’t even about the fans.
The new Dolphins are attempting to be an organization that is about more than a sprinkling of stars. Miami trying to become more than a collection of shiny parts. Miami has decided that from top to bottom, the sum is most important. This is about a team. And sadly, if Reshad Jones would prefer to be a shiny part rather than a part of a team, then no matter how great he is, he can’t be a part of the Dolphins’ future. Go Fins!!!