Miami Dolphins release former Dallas Cowboys first-round draft pick Byron Jones

Following a stunning announcement last month from cornerback Byron Jones about his health, the Miami Dolphins are reportedly releasing the former Dallas Cowboys first-rounder. Jones shared that he is no longer able to run or jump due to the injuries and subsequent treatments he’s had throughout his seven-year NFL career.

Now, the Dolphins are designating the corner for a post-June 1 cut. The move saves them $13.6 million in salary cap hits, according to Adam Schefter.

Jones has dealt with knee issues, as well as ankle and Achilles injuries. He did not play in 2022 and was on the Dolphins’ PUP list.

Jones spent the first five seasons of his career with the Dallas Cowboys. After the conclusion of the 2019 season, he signed a five-year, $82 million deal with the Dolphins that made him the highest-paid corner in the league at the time.

In the following two seasons, Jones compiled 95 tackles, two interceptions and 14 passes defended over 30 starts in Miami.

Miami’s move helps them and Jones. Retiring on his own would have potentially cost him $4.2 million from his signing bonus from 2020.

Jones issues stark warning to 2023 draft class

The former Cowboy can now either enter the free agency market on March 15 or, if his injuries are any indication, retire.

“Much has changed in 8 years,” Jones wrote in a reply to an NFL post about his record-breaking 12-foot-3 broad jump from the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine. “Today I can’t run or jump because of my injuries sustained playing this game. DO NOT take the pulls they give you. DO NOT take the injections they give you.

“If you absolutely must, consult an outside doctor to learn the long-term implications.”

“It was an honor and privilege to play in the NFL but it came at a regrettable cost I did not foresee,” Jones continued in another tweet. “In my opinion, no amount of professional success or financial gain is worth avoidable chronic pain and disabilities. Godspeed to the draft class of 2023.”

More on the 2023 NFL offseason, free agency

The NFL 2023 calendar year begins at 4 p.m. ET on March 15. At that time, contracts running through 2022 officially run out, making those players free agents. Prior to the beginning of free agency, teams will have a chance to designate one franchise or transition tag player, starting on Feb. 21 at 4 p.m. ET and ending on March 7.

Beginning March 13 through March 15 teams can enter into a legal negotiation with players who are will become unrestricted free agents.

In addition to NFL free agency, the new year also marks the beginning of all trades being made official by the league office. April 21 marks the deadline to sign restricted free agents to offer sheets. On April 26, the deadline for teams to match restricted free agent offers sheets hits.