Miami Dolphins starter is suspended indefinitely, team asks NFL to probe player's bullying claims
A week after a 24-year-old offensive tackle left the Miami Dolphins to deal with what news reports described as emotional issues after an incident in the team’s lunchroom, another starting player has been suspended indefinitely for “conduct detrimental to the team” and the Dolphins have asked the National Football League to investigate harassment claims by the absent player’s representatives.
Prior to his Sunday suspension by the Dolphins, guard Richie Incognito, 30, posted tweets denying any wrongdoing and saying that he wanted his name cleared. He is accused of sending racist and threatening texts to teammate Jonathan Martin, according to the Associated Press, NFL.com and the Palm Beach Post.
An ESPN article, which relies on information from unidentified sources, includes a transcript of what the network says was a text sent by Incognito to Martin.
“We received notification today from Jonathan’s representation about allegations of player misconduct,” said the Dolphins in a written statement provided to the media on Sunday. “We are taking these allegations very seriously and plan to review the matter further. We have also reached out to the NFL and asked them to conduct an objective and thorough review. As an organization, we are committed to a culture of team-first accountability and respect for one another.”
See also:
Mashable: “Ugly NFL Bullying Scandal Leaves Disturbing Digital Trail”
Miami Herald: “Sources: Miami Dolphins rookies pushed to pay up”
NFL.com: “Jonathan Martin to go on Miami Dolphins’ NFI list”
USA Today: “Ex-NFL QB Gannon recalls scaled shakedown of rookies”
