Dion Jordan's Absence with the Miami Dolphins: Analysis and Insights

The Miami Dolphins' defensive end, Dion Jordan, has struggled to break into the lineup despite his impressive college career. This article delves into the reasons behind his limited playing time and what steps the team can take to maximize his potential.

Why Has Dion Jordan Not Played Much?

It is advisable to consult ProFootballFocus (PFF) for a comprehensive analysis of Jordan's rookie season. While not affiliated with PFF, it offers detailed breakdowns that are invaluable for understanding player performance. Here is a summary of the reasons Dion Jordan has not played much for the Miami Dolphins:

1. Physical Underutilization: Upon his arrival, Jordan faced significant criticism for his lack of production, position uncertainty, and undesirable physical play. A comparison to Mike Mamula, a combination of revolutionary athleticism and questionable on-field performance, sets the stage for Dion's initial struggles. While he is a physical freak who excelled in the combine, this did not translate to consistent production on the field.

2. Performance Criticisms: Jordan's statistics from his college career at Oregon were meager, with only 5 sacks. Furthermore, he was unclear about his position as both a 3-4 outside linebacker (OLB) and a 4-3 defensive end. Off the field, Jordan faced multiple doping suspensions, including an initial ban for PEDs (performance-enhancing drugs), reduced to 2 games, and a later suspension for drug use. These suspensions raise questions about his dedication to the game and his performance.

3. Adjusted Playing Role: Despite the criticisms, if given the opportunity, Miami Dolphins should consider playing Jordan as a weakside OLB opposite to their star, Cam Wake. However, the team must utilize him in a way that aligns with his skills as a pass rusher. Historically, great teams like the Kansas City Chiefs have effectively utilized players like Derrick Thomas, allowing them to excel in counterweight roles.

4. Suspension Impact: Jordan's suspensions have limited his playing time, particularly during crucial early games. His absence allows other players, such as Olivier Vernon, to step up and fill the gap as a pass-rushing threat.

5. Player Development: Dion Jordan's progress as a defensive end has been slow, indicating that the transition from college to the NFL is challenging. His development on the field has contributed to his limited playing time.

What Should Miami Dolphins Do?

To address the issue of Dion Jordan's limited playing time, the Miami Dolphins must implement strategies that capitalize on his strengths while mitigating his weaknesses:

1. Optimizing Playing Position: Playing Jordan as a weakside OLB would allow him to more effectively perform his responsibilities, especially in pass-rushing scenarios. This role can better highlight his physical attributes and increase his contribution to the defense.

2. Positional Flexibility: Exploring different defensive alignments and roles can help Jordan find his best position on the field. Flexibility in his playing position could enhance his overall impact and mitigate his position-related criticism.

3. Coaching and Support: Providing Dion Jordan with targeted coaching and support to improve his on-field performance and address specific issues can help him establish a solid foundation in the NFL.

Conclusion

While Dion Jordan faces significant challenges, the Miami Dolphins have the opportunity to capitalize on his potential. By using him in a way that leverages his unique skills and addressing the criticisms and suspensions, the team can build a more cohesive defensive unit. The player's journey is ongoing, and with the right strategies and support, Dion Jordan can make a significant impact on the Miami Dolphins' defense.