Miami was good enough for Jason Fox in college. Now, the offensive lineman hopes to succeed with the Dolphins.
Fox, an All-ACC player during his Hurricanes career, signed a one-year contract with the Dolphins on Wednesday.
''I'm very comfortable with South Florida. I consider it as a second home to me, but obviously the main reason was the Miami Dolphins,'' the Fort Worth, Texas native said during an afternoon conference call. ''I'm just so excited to be here. Their offensive line presents a great opportunity for me to come in and compete. I couldn't be more thrilled.''
The four-year veteran joins an offensive line that added free-agent tackle Brandon Albert -- but lost Bryant McKinnie, Tyson Clabo and Will Yeatman -- and could compete for the starting right-tackle spot.
''There are some openings on this offensive line and I came in here to give it everything I have and to earn a starting job,'' Fox said. ''Whether it's at right tackle or whether it's inside somewhere or wherever, I'm here to help this team anyway I can.
''I think I'm an athletic, smart, tough guy. I think I can pick up the offense well, I think I'll be able to run the zone read. The things that they ask me to do I think I've done them in the past and I think I'll be able to execute it here.''
A former fourth-round pick of the Lions, Fox was hampered by injuries during his stay in Detroit.
''I had some bad luck early in my career, but that's over,'' Fox said. ''I feel a hundred percent healthy, and ready to go and compete and to play for this team.''
The 6-6, 314-pounder began last season as Detroit's starting right tackle after beating out Corey Hilliard. But Fox then suffered a groin injury 15 snaps into the season opener. He returned but then was put on injured reserve due to a knee injury.
Fox, who will turn 26 in May, he played in 13 regular-season games (three starts) overall with the Lions.
A two-time team captain for the Hurricanes, Fox's 47 career starts rank third among offensive linemen in UM history.
''We are very excited today in the Miami Dolphins family to add Jason Fox,'' general manager Dennis Hickey said. ''Jason has been a quality player. He was an excellent player at the University of Miami, so a lot of local fans will be very familiar with his play.''
You can follow Charlie McCarthy on Twitter @mccarthy_chas or email him at mac1763@bellsouth.net.
