Dolphins Draft Defense
Apr 25, 2013; New York, NY, USA; Defensive end Dion Jordan (Oregon) is introduced as the third overall pick of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
The 2013 NFL Draft is over and the Miami Dolphins had a pretty successful draft in terms of defensive players. Trading up to get Dion Jordan with the 3rd overall pick by only trading away one 2nd round pick, grabbing Jamar Taylor with the remaining second round pick, trading back up into the 3rd round for Will Davis, getting Jelani Jenkins in the 4th, and Don Jones with the 250th pick. Most have the potential to be big play-makers for the Dolphins.
Dion Jordan (DE/OLB)- To put it simply, the Dolphins got a steal on this pick. Prior to the start of the draft the Oakland Raiders, who had the 3rd overall pick, were looking to trade down, and Jeff Ireland capitalized on the chance. Moving from the 12th overall pick to the 3rd overall pick with only losing 1 of 2 second round picks was cheap for this talented of a player. Jordan should instantly be a starter for this team, most likely as a DE. With having Cameron Wake working with the Oregon Duck, he has the potential to be a dangerous pass rusher.
Jamar Taylor (Cornerback)- Personally I think Taylor has the potential to have the biggest impact in the Dolphins secondary this season. Many people thought that Taylor was a first round talent, me included. The Dolphins used the 54th pick which they received from the Indianapolis Colts for trading CB Vontae Davis last season. This was a great trade on the Dolphins part. Brent Grimes and Jamar Taylor have the potential to be a great couple in the secondary.
Will Davis (Cornerback)- This pick made me scratch my head a little. It’s not that I don’t believe Davis can be a good play-maker, it’s the lack of experience that concerns me a little. Will Davis only started playing football his Senior year of High School before going to Junior College, then moving on to Utah State. Davis had a solid season at Utah State picking up 64 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 17 pass deflections. This could turn out to be a very smart move for Jeff Ireland.
Jelani Jenkings (Linebacker)- The Dolphins added some solid depth to the newly remodeled linebacker corp. Jenkins has a big upside as a cover linebacker, but that’s only if he can stay healthy. Jenkins has a long list of injuries with his time as a Florida Gator. He played in only 9 games last season battling multiple injuries. I would have rather seen Ireland use this pick on a replacement for WR Devone Bess, but this could be a huge gain as long as he can stay of IR (Injured Reserve) or PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) lists.
Don Jones (Defensive Back)- Jeff Ireland has had some success with his 7th round picks. CB/FS Jimmy Wilson has been a contributor for the Dolphins secondary for a couple seasons now. Jones is a short(5’11”), but fast(4.35 40 yard dash) DB who could find a spot on the Dolphins roster at the start of the season.
Overall Jeff Ireland had a solid draft this year. There were a couple positions I felt needed to be addressed more than they were, but all of these defensive players could see some playing time this season. A few could even end up starters.