The Miami Dolphins were looking for an outside linebacker which is why they drafted rookie Dion Jordan. Jordan played for Oregon during his NCAA career, last season contributing 44 tackles and five sacks.
Analysts are forseeing big things for Jordan in the upcoming season. One of the major impacts Jordan will have on the Dolphin’s defense is helping Cameron Wake turn up the heat. Jordan is one of the faster OLB that participated in the NFL combine. The fastest 40-yard dash time for an OLB was 4.54 seconds (Jelani Jenkins) as compared to Jordan who ran it in 4.60 seconds. Jordan’s speed is key because Wake is often double teamed and chipped. If other offenses feel threatened by Jordan, they will have to take some of the pressure off of Wake, freeing him up to make sacks.
Jordan’s height is also a positive for the Dolphins. He stands at six foot six and was nicknamed the “Preying Mantis” in college. This will hopefully help the Dolphins intercept more balls or block passes at the line. Fans should keep in mind that Jordan’s shoulder is healing after recently undergoing surgery. This may have some impact on how much he participates in training camp, but he should be ready to play come opening day.
Jordan is extremely excited to play as any young player would be, especially if they were drafted third overall. What it really boils down to is what Jordan is going to do as a rookie and as he is quoted as saying, “I’m going to take care of what I have to do as a player,” exactly what every NFL team wants from their rookies.
