Three Miami Dolphins offensive linemen are accused of engaging in a "pattern of harassment" aimed not only at teammate Jonathan Martin, but also at other players and staff members.
That's according to an extensive investigation by big-name defense attorney Ted Wells. The NFL commissioned the independent report after Martin left the team in October amid claims of bullying and harassment. (Via NBC)
The report found Richie Incognito, John Jerry and Mike Pouncey directed "racial slurs," "homophobic name-calling" and "other offensive remarks" at Martin, another young unnamed Dolphins offensive lineman and an assistant trainer. (Via Fox Sports)
The report also rejects suggestions Martin made up the allegations "to cover up an impetuous decision to leave the team." (Via Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP)
Martin reportedly contemplated suicide following the 2012 season, texting his mother: "I'm never gonna change. I got punked again today. ... And I never do anything about it." (Via Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP)
The team's offensive line kept a "fine book" for levying penalties against players for various offenses. Incognito repeatedly fined Martin for his emotional reactions to the taunting. He even fined himself the day Martin left the team for "Breaking JMart." (Via Deadspin)
Incognito reportedly asked the other linemen to destroy the book after his suspension.
Still, Incognito never denied the comments were made. To him though, it was an "accepted part of the everyday camaraderie." (Via Twitter / @68INCOGNITO)
Months of text messages between Incognito and Martin were made public at the end of January. Although the contents were often vulgar or crude, they did appear to show a genuine friendship between the two men. (Via WFOR)
The report also concluded Incognito and his teammates never intended to drive Martin away from the team. (Via Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP)
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross has said he doesn't expect either player to return to the team next season. Incognito is a free agent. Martin has two years left on his contract, although he's expected to either be traded or released.
