Fins continue to bolster D by trading up for Jordan

BY NICK ST. DENIS & DAN BEGNOCHE

When the Miami Dolphins were reported to have traded up into the Oakland Raiders' No. 3 overall spot in the 2013 NFL Draft, it looked as if the ball would be handed off to tackle Lane Johnson.

But it was a play-action. (photo: NFLDraft101.com)

The Dolphins decisively injected a shot into their their already-bolstered front-seven by selecting Oregon defensive end Dion Jordan.

Miami, which originally sat at a lukewarm No. 12 overall spot, surrendered just its initial first-round pick and its first of two second-rounders -- the 42nd overall choice.

Dolphins pass rusher Cameron Wake's meetings with opposing quarterbacks had become less frequent over the last few years, as he's been facing double teams and getting more an more attention. Now, opposing offenses won't be able to put all their attention on Wake.

The two, along with newcomers Dannell Ellerbe and Philip Wheeler, should provide a formidable front for a team that was already solid in the pass rush but could use some help against the run and in the takeaway department from last season.

General manager Jeff Ireland's pick of Jordan could also be all the proof needed that the team's ongoing contact negotiation with Kansas City Chiefs tackle Branden Albert is set, with the 'Fins No. 54 overall pick the likely bargaining chip.

 Jordan had 121 total tackles in his career with Oregon, with 14.5 sacks and four forced fumbles.

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