As we inch closer to the kickoff of the 2022 NFL season, with the 100-day countdown now underway, we’re celebrating the greatest Miami Dolphins by jersey number. Today, we spotlight the history of number 95 in Dolphins lore.
So far, we’ve seen Dolphins legends such as Jason Taylor dominate at 99, Jared Odrick stand out at 98, Phillip Merling impress at 97, and Paul Soliai anchor the defense at 96. Our journey now brings us to number 95, a number donned by several impactful players over the years for the Dolphins.
The roster of players who have worn the number 95 jersey for the Dolphins in at least one regular season game includes NT T.J. Turner (1986-92), DT Tim Bowens (1994-2004), Dan Wilkinson (2006), DT Chase Page (2007), NT Jason Ferguson (2008-09), DT Lionel Dotson (2010), DT Chris Baker (2010), DT Igor Olshansky (2011), DE Dion Jordan (2013-14), DE William Hayes (2017-18), DE Tank Carradine (2019), DT John Jenkins (2019), DT Benito Jones (2020), and DT Josiah Bronson (2022).
In the debate for the top number 95 to ever grace the field for the Dolphins, Tim Bowens emerges as a clear standout. Recognized for his prowess as a dominant force in stuffing the run, Bowens’ contributions were pivotal, with his teamwork often cited by teammate Zach Thomas as crucial for his own success at linebacker. Though Bowens was honored with two Pro Bowl selections, his significance to the Dolphins arguably merited even more recognition.
Following Bowens, T.J. Turner and Jason Ferguson round out the top three. Turner, the first to wear 95, was a stalwart starter despite the defense’s overall struggles, and Ferguson’s role in the Dolphins’ 2008 AFC East championship run exemplifies the value of a strong, run-stopping lineman.
While William Hayes and others also made their mark, injuries and inconsistencies marred their times with the team. It’s also worth noting Dion Jordan’s tumultuous tenure, marked by suspensions equaling his sack total.
Comparing Tim Bowens to the league’s elite at the number 95, while Jason Taylor is celebrated among the NFL’s best at 99, Bowens’ legacy is also significant. He stands alongside legends like Richard Dent and Charles Haley, as well as contemporary stars such as Myles Garrett and Chris Jones, in the conversation for the best to wear number 95. With his contribution, Bowens is remembered as an integral part of the Dolphins’ history and the NFL’s broader legacy of defensive greats.