The Miami Dolphins released the number three overall pick in the 2013 draft last week, and the Steelers should take notice. Dion Jordan was a physical freak coming out of the University of Oregon. He wowed teams with his incredible combine numbers that came with his huge 6′ 6″ frame. So much so, that the Dolphins traded up to the third spot in order to get the talented defensive end. Injuries, and P.E.D. suspensions derailed Jordan’s career to the point where he’s now considered one of the biggest draft busts in recent memory. Jordan has only managed three sacks in his four seasons in the league, which equals the number of suspensions he has accumulated. He missed 6 games in 2014, and all of 2015 for various P.E.D. violations.
Now I’m sure you’re wondering why Pittsburgh should have any interest whatsoever in this kind of player? Well first off, there’s no denying the physical tools Dion Jordan posses when healthy. He ran a 4.6 forty yard dash at the combine, while registering through the roof in key athletic categories. One of the areas that he didn’t register highly on is weight. At 6’6″, Jordan only weighed in at 248 pounds which is on the low side for an NFL defensive end. That may be the key to all his issues that occurred once he landed in Miami. The Dolphins play a 4-3 scheme, and wanted Jordan to bulk up to play end. Clearly that’s not the position he is best suited for, and the struggle to get stronger probably lead to the drug suspensions. In Pittsburgh, he could be used as a pass rush specialist in a 3-4 scheme where he’d be free to use his natural athleticism. Coming in on passing downs to occasionally spell James Harrison could be the perfect fit for this type of player. This of course is contingent on Dion Jordan being healthy, something he has also struggled with as a pro. He did just fail a physical with Miami, which ultimately lead to his release. Keep in mind though that the Dolphins were looking for any excuse to move on from there biggest draft bust. In all, it wouldn’t cost the Steelers more then a camp invite to see if there is anything left in the once promising edge rusher. Considering all the camp fodder brought in to make up a 90 man roster, Jordan would be well worth a spot in that group. Lord knows it wouldn’t take much to upgrade the pass rushing on this current roster.