Richie Incognito Suspended by Miami

Oct 27, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots linebacker Dane Fletcher (52) salutes after sacking Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) as Miami Dolphins guard Richie Incognito (68) walks by during the fourth quarter of their 27-17 win at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

As first reported by Jeff Darlington, and later confirmed by the Dolphins, starting left guard Richie Incognito has been suspended indefinitely by the team.  The suspension has come to light as being for “conduct detrimental to the team,” leaving the Dolphins without one of their primary locker room leaders.

Few facts have surfaced in the case, though there has been a great deal of speculation and heresay floating around the internet.  Reports and unnamed sources have stated various levels of “inside information” and speculated upon various aspects of the on-going drama, with few confirmed facts on this matter to date.

The facts known thus far are:

• Jonathan Martin left the cafeteria on Monday following a team prank (one that he himself had reportedly participated in against a fellow team member during the prior week)
• Jonathan Martin’s representation filed a notification with the team alleging player misconduct
• Richie Incognito has been suspended indefinitely for “conduct detrimental to the team” by the Dolphins pending the investigation

All fans should keep in mind that until all of the facts surface, judgement shouldn’t be levied against either player in the court of public opinion.  We simply do not have the facts at hand to say precisely what took place, or whom is truly at fault.  It is not uncommon in harassment allegations for a person to be temporarily suspended from their place of employment pending review of the allegations.  While Richie has a reputation as a volatile player, he also was the recipient of the media’s “Good Guy” award in the 2012 season in which he also represented the Dolphins in the Pro Bowl.

With the suspension of Incognito and in the absence of Jonathan Martin, the Dolphins offensive line, already under scrutiny from the number of sacks given up as a team thus far this season, was dealt a heavy blow going into next weeks contest against the winless Buccaneers.  Miami will be down a minimum of two starting offensive linemen unless this matter sees a quick and thorough resolution.

Without a quick and thorough resolution, this saga could prove detrimental to a team that has just begun to right the ship after four consecutive losses.