Who do you side with?

Richie Incognito, Miami Dolphins offensive lineman has been getting quite a lot of support lately. A lot of that support is coming from his own locker room. After being suspended on Sunday night for allegations that he bullied fellow offensive lineman, Johnathan Martin. Players like Brian Hartline and Tyson Clabo have made it clear that "Richie" is not a bad guy. Incognito, who has a reputation for being the NFL's dirtiest player, feels like his past is haunting him.



Martin, a former Stanford University standout, left the team suddenly on Monday afternoon. This behavior shocked his teammates and fans. Most teammates that have spoken on the matter are saying that Martin was like Incognito's little brother. In fact, the infamous voice mail that Martin brought forward recently, was a laughing matter back in April.

I don't know why, but when I first heard that Martin left the team due to hazing, the first guy that came to mind was Incognito. Maybe, I am like the rest of us who will judge people on the past. As more of this situation develops, it's only looking worse for both- especially, Martin. Incognito, will probably find another team, but get paid minimum salary; Martin will be known as a gentle giant (in other words-soft), who you can trust in the locker room. That will make it tough for him to get another gig in the NFL.

So who do you side with? Was Incognito just doing what all NFL players do in a locker room environment? Did he go overboard? Or is Martin too soft (mentally, physically, and emotionally) to play football?

Martin claims harrasment

Jonathan Martin, a 6'5" 312-pound offensive lineman, left the Miami Dolphins squad earlier this week due to an unsafe workplace environment. After a few days, rumors and unnamed sources are coming out. Most of those rumors or accusations are pointing towards Guard Richie Incognito. Incognito, who usually gets in trouble for on-the-field penalties, has been accused of harassing Martin. Those unnamed sources, who are most likely other young players on the Dolphins, stated that veterans are taking advantage of rookies and other young players on the team. In fact, reports claim that Incognito asked for $15,000 for a Las Vegas trip with other Dolphin veterans.

Rookie hazing has always been a part of sports, but it usually takes place in training camps. It's difficult for coaches, front office, and even fans to find out that these things are happening in the middle of a losing streak. It would be hard to believe that not one coach was aware of anything like this. In fact, the Dolphins have asked the NFL to start an investigation in to this matter.



Incognito displayed his plea for innocence on Twitter:

Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth.

Buddha

@68INCOGNITO at 4:47 am. November 3, 2013.

For now, the Dolphins aren't speaking any further on this matter except for the following press release found on the official Miami Dolphins website:

“The Miami Dolphins, including Coach Joe Philbin and Jonathan's teammates, have been in communication with Jonathan and his family since his departure from the club and continue to be in contact. Our primary concern for Jonathan is his overall health and well-being. As an organization, we take any accusations of player misconduct seriously. The notion of bullying is based on speculation and has not been presented to us as a concern from Jonathan or anyone else internally. The reports that the NFLPA is investigating our players are inaccurate. Additionally, the NFL offered its assistance during this time, which we appreciated and gladly accepted. We will continue to make Jonathan's health and well-being a focus as we do with all of our players."

It's great to see the Dolphin Organization supporting Martin. Some may question Martin's toughness- especially mental. I believe this could have been handled in-house by Martin, as well as other coaches. Once again, I would find it hard to believe that a professional football team with at least 20 coaches wouldn't know what was going on.

 So what are your thoughts on the whole situation? In this blown out of proportion? Is Martin overreacting? Or did Incognito and other teammates go too far?

NFL Franchise soon to come in London

The National Football League may not be done expanding. At one point, the NFL wanted to penetrate the European market with the NFL Europe. That may or may have not worked (depending on your perspective). The reason it may have worked is because when NFL teams go to London and play, the games are sold out. Over 80,000 fans pack Wembley Stadium like if it's a soccer match between Arsenal and Chelsea (two of London's well known soccer clubs). Similar language might have made it easy to attract this market. Also, some British may enjoy a tough and physical sport that is similar to rugby.
 (image provided by wembleystadium.com)

The NFL started tapping in to the European market in 2007, when the New York Giants and the Miami Dolphins engaged in a match in Wembley. It has been a success ever since. This season, the NFL has scheduled two games, including the Jacksonville Jaguars vs San Francisco 49ers this upcoming Sunday. Next year, three regular season games will be played in London. Amongst the teams playing next year are the Dallas Cowboys, Oakland Raiders, and the Dolphins. As a result of the attention the NFL is getting in London, there is speculation of the league landing a franchise in London.

The Cowboys, America's team, will be showcased in London next year. Jerry Jones, Cowboys owner, will have a chance to market the Cowboy brand overseas. He was one of the owners pushing for his team to go.

I know there's a Canadian football league, but why not try Toronto? Vancouver? I can't imagine the issues that may arise with culture shock and travelling.