James Walker, ESPN Staff Writer 8y

Dolphins still await NFL decision on Dion Jordan as training camp nears

With training camp set to begin for the Miami Dolphins later this week, one of the under-the-radar stories this summer could be the potential return of 2013 first-round pick Dion Jordan.

Dolphins rookie and veteran players are set to report to the Baptist Health Training Facility in Davie, Florida, on Thursday. However, the team is still awaiting word on Jordan's status. The defensive end completed his yearlong suspension for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy. He filed for reinstatement last month, and his camp is confident Jordan made the proper steps to return to Miami.

Despite his lofty status as a former No. 3 overall pick, Jordan isn't guaranteed to make the team. He would be returning under a new coaching staff and a revamped defensive end group that added veterans Mario Williams and Andre Branch. Jordan may have to prove himself as a backup and on special teams.

The Dolphins operated this offseason with the approach that Jordan is not on the roster. If Jordan does get reinstated, that is a bonus and he will get a look.

Although the Dolphins have not said much publicly on Jordan, they plan to give him a fair chance to make the 53-man roster. However, a big part of that for Jordan is getting a full training camp and preseason under his belt after being out of football since 2014. It certainly would help Jordan’s case if the league made its decision this week and he doesn't miss practice time.

Jordan had a disappointing start to his NFL career. He was expected to be a star defensive end and pass-rusher after the Dolphins traded up from No. 12 in the first round to draft Jordan in 2013. But he's had multiple suspensions and just 46 tackles and three sacks in 26 career games.

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