Top Dolphins Pick Dion Jordan Sits Outs First Training Camp Practice

Miami Dolphins top pick Dion Jordan sat out his team’s first training camp practice on Sunday, and the team declined to comment on when he might take to the field.

The new Dolphins linebacker watched from the sideline as he continued to nurse his surgically repaired right shoulder that has yet to fully heal.

Jordan was recently placed on the non-football injury list and told reporters:

“It’s really frustrating to not be out there, but I understand my health is the main concern.”

If Dion Jordan is not added to the active roster by the first game of the NFL season, he will be forced to sit out the first six games of the regular season.

Dion was picked third overall by the Miami Dolphins and received a $20.6 million, four-year contract which includes a $13.3 million signing bonus. Despite his injury Dion Jordan signed his new contract on Saturday afternoon.

When asked why he didn’t practice with his fellow Dolphins, Dion revealed:

“Coach and the people in the training room decided it was best for me. I want to be able to have a good career, a long career. I’m going to do what I have to do right now to make sure that’s possible.”

Coach Joe Philbin has declined to comment on the status of his new rookie.

Dion Jordan racked up 14 1/2 career sacks at Oregon but missed the end of last season after suffering from a torn labrum. Jordan had surgery to repair his injury in February.

In the meantime, the Dolphins need Jordan on the field so they can figure out if the 6-foot-6, 260-pound 3rd pick will be best utilized as an NFL linebacker or end. Jordan was never an every down player at Oregon, and his full-game evaluation will likely weigh on the teams position choice for their top pick.

Do you think Dion Jordan will ultimately be a positive addition to the Miami Dolphins roster? Do you think he will end up in the linebacker or end position?