After missing out on an NFL draft selection this weekend, Matthew Jones will still get a shot at making a roster.
The two-year starter at right guard for the Buckeyes will start his pro career with the Miami Dolphins, who are signing him as an undrafted free agent according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
Matthew Jones, a guard/center from Ohio State, is signing with Dolphins, per source
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) April 28, 2024
Jones played six seasons and made 29 total starts at Ohio State, including 24 of the team's 26 combined games in 2022 and 2023. After seeing some meaningful playing time both in 2020 and 2021, first due to COVID-19-related lineup shuffles then as a rotational piece at guard, Jones took up the starting right guard job for the Buckeyes ahead of the 2022 season. He earned second-team All-Big Ten honors in both 2022 and 2023.
Jones' final start came at center in the Cotton Bowl, showcasing some of his swing ability to NFL teams. Playing center and guard are both possibilities for Jones at the next level.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Jones ran a 5.21-second 40-yard dash and posted a 28-inch vertical leap with an 8-foot 7-inch broad jump and 8.19-second time in the three-cone drill. He bettered his 3-cone time to roughly 7.6 seconds at Ohio State's Pro Day.
"I'm just trying to be as versatile as possible," Jones told Eleven Warriors at the pro day March 20. "From that center position, just be comfortable and be confident."
As an undrafted signee, the first step for Jones will be to make the Dolphins’ 53-man roster this fall. If he can do that, he’ll likely begin his career as a backup on their interior offensive line.
