John Saunders Jr. (born October 24, 2001) is an American professional football safety. Saunders played college football for the Miami RedHawks and Ole Miss Rebels. He signed with the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent in 2025.
Early life Saunders Jr. was born in High Point, North Carolina and attended High Point Christian Academy. Coming out of high school he committed to play college football for the Miami RedHawks.
College career Miami (OH) From 2020 to 2022, Saunders Jr. attended Miami University.
Ole Miss In 2023, he transferred to Ole Miss.
He finished the 2024 season, totaling 47 tackles with one and a half being for a loss, five pass deflections, and three interceptions.
Professional career
Miami Dolphins After not being selected in the 2025 NFL draft, Saunders signed with the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent. He was released during the preseason with the Dolphins, but later signed to the team's practice squad after final roster cuts.
New England Patriots On October 30, 2025, Saunders was signed off the Dolphins' practice squad to the New England Patriots' active roster. Saunders was released from the Patriots on November 17 and re-signed to the practice squad two days later.
On February 11, 2026, Saunders signed a reserve/futures contract with New England. He was waived on August 30.
New York Jets On September 15, 2026, Saunders signed with the New York Jets practice squad. On October 1, he was released.
References
External links Miami Redhawks bio Ole Miss Rebels bio