Dolphins top 20 2016 moves: number 17
By Brian Miller
Today we continue Looking back at the 2016 off-season for the Miami Dolphins and the 20 moves that could impact not only the 2016 season but beyond.
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Number 17: Dion Jordan reinstated with a knee injury
The Miami Dolphins played it coy with talk of Dion Jordan’s return throughout the off-season. Most believed that this was simply lip service from the Dolphins. As it turns out they were just as much in the dark as everyone else.
Jordan’s reinstatement came from the NFL not only with restrictions and conditions but also on the same day the Dolphins opened training camp.
With Jordan back on the team after over a year away due to an NFL suspension on a failed drug test, the Dolphins had a choice to make. Keep him and potentially pay him $1.7 million on the 5th day of training camp as part of his rookie deal, or release him.
Turns out the Dolphins didn’t need to do either. Rumors immediately surfaced that the Dolphins could legally withhold the payment as part of the more than $3 million roster bonus that the Dolphins were trying to get back due to the suspension. Suddenly it appeared that the Dolphins were going to get Jordan on the field for almost free.
Jordan reported to camp on day two but he failed his physical. It was then reported that Jordan had off-season knee surgery. A simple scope but still requiring rehabilitation like that of rookie corner Xavien Howard.
The kicker was that the Dolphins apparently were unaware of the surgery or the rehab. Jordan’s presence in Miami may not be long lived once he is finally cleared to practice. In fact, by the time you read this, he may already be gone. Regardless, Jordan’s relationship with the Dolphins makes the top 20.
If he does manage to make the roster, how will Vance Joseph incorporate him into his defense?