So I just watch Dion Jordan’s gamefilm again and got to say, it’s incredibly difficult not to be overly impressed. Anybody his size has his speed can make an immediate impact. The NFL is a copycat league and the new flavor of the month is going pass rusher, pass rusher, pass rusher!! It has really been the formula for the most recent successful teams. The Julian Peterson comparables are justified.
Realistically I don't think Jordan will be available at the Brown’s pick. I actually predict he goes Top 3.
Regardless, he’s coming in at #3 on Bernie's Wish List. Let's grab some popcorn and look at the scouting report:
Overview
Jordan arrived in Eugene as a top-10 nationally rated tight end prospect from the southern suburbs of Phoenix -- despite missing the end of his senior season after an accidental home fire left him with second or third-degree burns over almost half of his body. Oregon coaches actually wanted him to play receiver initially, but his continued growth through his first two seasons in Eugene pushed him first to tight end and then to the defensive side of the ball.
He showed promise after moving across the line during spring 2010 practices, playing in 13 games and starting one at defensive end (5.5 tackles for loss, two sacks) as a redshirt sophomore. But the move really bore fruit when he earned first-team All-PAC 12 honors in 2011 as a 12-game starter at his hybrid defensive end/linebacker position (42 tackles, 13 for loss, team-high 7.5 sacks). Jordan continued working at his drop end, outside linebacker spot in 2012, recording 44 total tackles, 10.5 going for a loss, including five sacks. The Duck forced three fumbles and intercepted one pass. He only played in 11 full games after missing parts or the entirety of three others with a shoulder injury. It has been reported Jordan will miss the Senior Bowl to undergo surgery to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder.
Analysis
Strengths
Tall end/linebacker hybrid with excellent length. Definitely not contact-shy, extends his long arms to land a strong punch on blockers, can disengage to chase plays from behind or grab ballcarriers coming into his area. Also willing to mix it up when challenged. Long strides allow him to cover ground quickly when closing or after his strong get-off with his hand down, but also shows enough bend and short-area quickness to avoid linemen. Lines up against slot receivers and tight ends, managing to stay with them in the open field in spite of his size. Flashes quickness and bend to beat tackles around the corner, can counter with an inside rush or spin move. Also quick enough to flatten down the line to make plays on inside runs. Willing to stick his shoulder into a lead blocker to free up other defenders.
Weaknesses
Might be an end/linebacker ‘tweener for some teams due to his tall, lean frame. Must improve upper-body strength to get off blocks and gain leverage against NFL-caliber linemen. His height will make it more difficult for him to get low to stop ballcarriers’ momentum or corral them in the open field. Inconsistent working through initial contact to chase plays and finding the ball in the backfield. Susceptible to cut blocks in space, must learn to see and beat them with his hands. Can get knocked off his pass rush route by a strong punch.
NFL Comparison
Julian Peterson
Bottom Line
Jordan's 2012 season ended on a down note, aggravating a shoulder injury during the team's bowl game. He will miss the Senior Bowl and part of the draft process because of it, but Jordan offers a unique blend of comfort in space, length, and pass rush ability. His box scores may not appeal to everyone, but Jordan was frequently asked to cover receivers or tight ends after lining up in the slot opposite them. His future appears to be at strongside linebacker in a four man front, with the ability to rush the passer, or as an outside linebacker in a three-man front.
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