Monday, September 2, 2013

Dion Jordan's role Sunday 'to be determined'

BY SEAN DONOVAN

Miami Dolphins first-round pick defensive end Dion Jordan has returned to full participation in practice since returning from a shoulder injury last week, and according to his coaches, will be ready to go for next Sunday's season opener against the Cleveland Browns.

"He got a good number of reps today. We're excited," defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle told reporters, via Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald. "He's going to have a significant role in the gameplan this week, I can guarantee you that."

Jordan sat out of Miami's final three preseason games after aggravating a shoulder injury that dates back to his final season in college.

The prevailing thought was that the Dolphins were being exceptionally cautious with their top pick by holding him out, and he would return to full participation before the season. Coyle's comments partially confirmed that idea, but the real mystery remains exactly how they'll use the former Oregon standout.

Jordan's role for Sunday's game, according to head coach Joe Philbin, is still yet "to be determined." When Jordan last saw the field in preseason, he played almost exclusively on third downs, usually rushing the passer but also dropping into coverage.

If that's any indication, Jordan's action in his NFL debut will be limited, but the Dolphins may be looking for other ways to get him on the field. According to reports, Jordan was working with the kickoff coverage team during Monday's practice.

When asked about it, Philbin wasn't dismissive of the idea that his top draft pick would be running down the field on special teams, saying "it's a critical play in football."

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