DAVIE, Fla. - Miami Dolphins offensive tackle Jonathan Martin met with NFL-appointed attorney Ted Wells in New York Friday to discuss allegations of player misconduct in the organization's locker room.
The rest of the team will get its chance to talk next week.
According to several players made available to the media after Friday's practice, they have been told that NFL representatives are planning to travel to the team facility next week to conduct part of the league's investigation.
MORE: Stakes high in Dolphins bullying case
Guard Richie Incognito has been suspended indefinitely for conduct detrimental to the team for his role in the alleged harassment of Martin, who left the team two weeks ago. Wells is directing the NFL's investigation of the Dolphins' workplace and will provide Commissioner Roger Goodell with a report that will be made public after he finalizes his interviews.
TIMELINE: Dolphins' alleged bullying
Without Incognito and Martin, however, Miami is attempting to move on.
MIKE MCCORMACK: Browns HOFer dies at 83
The Dolphins held their regular leadership council meeting with Philbin Wednesday. The council, which typically comprises six players, was without Incognito, who had been selected by his teammates in training camp as one of the members.
'I'll just say this: It was a good meeting of the minds,' said defensive end Cameron Wake, who is another of the council members. 'Obviously guys on the team who've been around and who hopefully know what's best for the team helped - with alongside coach - kind of push things in the right direction. I don't want to get into specifics, but it's just whatever we can to kind of help this team and push us in the right direction. I think that group of people, along with the coaching staff is obviously going to help out.'
The other players on the leadership council are quarterback Ryan Tannehill, center Mike Pouncey, linebacker Dannell Ellerbe and defensive tackle Paul Soliai.
'I'm not going to get into the details, but they had a couple of good suggestions in regard to some things that we're doing and those discussions are always internal, but it was a productive meeting,' Philbin said.
The Dolphins declined to address Incognito filing a non-injury grievance against the team Thursday.
Under the collective bargaining agreement, Incognito can be suspended a maximum of four games.
After Friday's practice, players understood Incognito's decision.
'He's got to do what he's got to do,' wide receiver Mike Wallace said. 'I'm never going to tell somebody how to run their life. You've got to get your money, so I don't know. I don't really have too much to say about it.'
Contributing: Tom Pelissero Follow Lorenzo Reyes on Twitter @Lorenzo_G_Reyes VIDEO: WHAT YOU CAN'T MISS THIS WEEKEND IN SPORTS
Since the player misconduct allegations surfaced two weeks ago, Dolphins players and coaches have stressed that the situation hasn't been a distraction. Some indicated Friday, however, that they sensed the worst had passed.
'That doesn't get as much of our time anymore,' offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie said. 'The first couple of days it probably did, or whatever, but not as much anymore.
'At this point, what are we, two weeks now? That story's not as big for us anymore. It has died down a lot in here. We know it's not over, but it definitely doesn't carry as much weight as it did before.'
Post a Comment