After punching Kenyan Drake, Dolphins release Gabe Wright
By Brian Miller
The Miami Dolphins made an unexpected move today releasing veteran defensive lineman Gabe Wright following a fight at practice.
Today’s training camp practice was intense. Most of those in attendance noticed a lot of heat coming more from the field than the South Florida sun. Gabe Wright found the heat to be a little different.
As the practice ramped up and got more intense the players got more physical and tempers flared. Not all of what happened to escalate the issue is known. Four “skirmishes” broke out during today’s session but what we do know is that Wright hit Kenyan Drake with either a fist or an elbow while Drake was facing away from him.
Wright was a long shot to make the final 53 but his release does leave the Dolphins with less depth at the position. With a game coming up on Friday the team will have to move fast to fill his roster spot.
The final open practice of the season is tomorrow and then the Dolphins close down their training camp to media only and in some cases no media at all.
"(Why do you think it was feisty out there today?) – “It’s the second day after an off day. Yesterday wasn’t an intense practice. Everyone is getting tired of hitting each other in camp. That’s what happens in the NFL about this time every year (with) every team.” OC Dowell Loggains, via MiamiDolphins.com"
Feisty is being nice. Things have been getting intense this week for the Dolphins. The coaching staff are upset over the poor play from last Thursday and they are starting to discipline players for not getting things together.
Miami has moved Bobby McCain outside and Fitzpatrick into the slot cover role, they are actively searching for another cornerback, and have been loud at practice. The intensity also spilled over to Ryan Tannehill who kicked rookie Kalen Ballage out of the huddle and off the field for missing a block in yesterday’s session. Today was a climax to the teams frustrations and the players frustrations.
Defensive coordinator Matt Burke understands but knows there is a time and a place.
"Today it seemed like that intensity was there.) – “Maybe, yes; but sometimes misplaced. You’ve got to get good work in too. It can’t just be … It’s got to be within the context of doing what we’re asking you to do and executing the scheme too. Just coming out here, being a jackass and running around, that doesn’t help us either.”"
The Dolphins will travel on Wednesday to Charlotte, Nc for Friday’s game. Thursday will be a light practice so tomorrow could be another intense day in Davie.