There are reports out of Miami, that Dolphins offensive lineman Johnathan Martin left the team this week after being bullied by teammates. Now there are conflicting stories about the account, but sources close to the team say some of the other lineman were just joking on Martin and he took it really personal and basically flipped out. If this is true, then there are definitely some things going on in this young mans life that are affecting him besides jokes from his fellow players. This is not some guy who barely plays. He was a second round pick last year and started every game this season until this point. Hit the jump for more about it.
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His teammates rallied around him yesterday to show support. “Obviously, we care about J-Mart a lot; we just want him to be all right,” said Dolphins right tackle Tyson Clabo, who replaced Martin in the starting lineup Thursday against the Bengals. “I want him to come back to work. He’s a talented, young football player. I can’t say what he’s feeling. But I know if and when he wants to come back, I will be there to shake his hand.”
Head Coach Joe Philbin read a prepared statement:
“What I’d like to say in regards to Jonathan, any player with an injury or illness, our concern is for the health of the individual,” Philbin said. “In respect to Jonathan, he’s been excused with a non-football illness. Our concern and support are with him. That’s all I’m going to say.”
Sources say Martin has been the target of consistent bullying and teasing within the locker room. Others mentioned he may be dealing with personal stress off the field which contributed to how he is feeling. Hopefully this works out for the best.
