Dolphins suspend Incognito
The Miami Dolphins issued their third statement of the day late Sunday night in the situation involving Jonathan Martin, announcing the suspension of offensive lineman Richie Incognito for conduct detrimental to the team.
"We believe in maintaining a culture of respect for one another and, as a result, we believe this decision is in the best interest of the organization at this time," the statement read. "As we noted earlier, we reached out to the NFL to conduct an objective and thorough review. We will continue to work with the league on this matter."
Earlier in the day, the Dolphins said Martin, an offensive lineman, might not return to the team.
The Dolphins issued a statement Sunday afternoon confirming league and team probes into allegations of misconduct that led to Martin walking out of the team facility this week.
"We received notification today from Jonathan's representation about allegations of player misconduct," the statement read. "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."
ESPN reported Sunday that Martin, who left the Dolphins last week amid reports of bullying from teammates, specifically fears retribution from Incognito.
The Dolphins are expected to place Martin on the non-football injury list as soon as Tuesday, according to the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Martin was intimidated by Incognito into paying $15,000 toward a trip to Las Vegas. Martin did not go on the trip but still surrendered the money.
Incognito took to Twitter on Sunday, writing "I want my name CLEARED." He took direct aim at Schefter, writing: "Stop slandering my name. You hide behind "sources" who are not man enough to put their name behind the BS you report."
