Nathan

Jones

He replaces Phillip Adams, who was waived Monday despite playing 51 snaps in Sunday’s win over the Eagles. Jones will be fourth on the depth chart behind Devin McCourty, Kyle Arrington and Antwaun Molden. Although Jones has experience in the slot, his signing isn’t likely to eliminate the Pats’ need to occasionally use WR Julian Edelman at nickel back.

Jones’ release is a sign that the Dolphins expect starting corner Vontae Davis (hamstring) to be ready when they come out of their bye.

Jones was Miami’s nickel back in 2009 before landing a four-year deal with the Broncos last year. He’ll play the same role for the Dolphins while Vontae Davis and Chris Clemons battle hamstring injuries.

Smith is ahead of veteran pickup Nate Jones. Smith wasn’t so bad in his first year that the Broncos would give up on him, but he lost the nickel position to undrafted free agent Tony Carter. He’s getting another chance this spring.

Brown, a Cal Poly alum, has terrific size. With fellow late-round CB Alan Ball, Brown will try to push Jacques Reeves and Nathan Jones off the roster.

Jones was cut Tuesday in a procedural move to get Tank Johnson onto the roster. When Johnson went on the suspended list, Jones was brought back. Jones would’ve made $850,000 this season had he stayed on the roster.

Jones has a clear upper hand because he’s productive on special teams and a better slot corner than Allen. Allen was rumored to be on the roster bubble each of the last two offseasons. This is probably the summer he’ll be cut.

Like half the other guys the Dolphins have met with this offseason, Jones was a Bill Parcells guy in Dallas. He can play both corner and safety, and is a solid contributor on special teams. The Dolphins could look to have him lineup alongside Ted Ginn Jr. on kickoffs.

He’ll be a dime back or fifth corner and special teamer in Miami.

Dallas remains interested in keeping the defensive back and special teamer while the Dolphins, of course, are also interested.