Dion Jordan didn't have near the impact on the Miami Dolphins' defense that one would expect from a defensive end drafted third overall -- especially one whose team traded up for him.
Despite the Dolphins' high hopes for Jordan, his wiry frame and the emergence of fellow defensive end Olivier Vernon left the Oregon product in a minimal pass-rushing specialist role throughout his rookie campaign.
He amassed just two sacks and 16 tackles in 16 games, an output that must increase drastically in 2014.
While bulking up will undoubtedly be a major priority for Jordan, the Dolphins will need to get creative with him in order to max out what he's capable of from a playing time standpoint.
Someone within the Dolphins organization recently told Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald that Jordan's struggles against bigger tackles is a concern, and basically that his skill set is much more suited for linebacker.
". . . he has far more range and speed and explosiveness than [starting linebacker Koa] Misi," Jackson's source said. "But Koa is more consistent and steady. Jordan gives you great flexibility because he can cover and rush the passer. This is a huge offseason for him."
Defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle will be best served making Jordan a true hybrid front-seven defender, similar to what the Jets have done with Quinton Coples, albeit more for pass defense purposes.
". . this offseason I’ve got to get much better as a player in all aspects," Jordan said at the end of the season.
". . this offseason I’ve got to get much better as a player in all aspects," Jordan said at the end of the season.
