MIAMI (AP) - Miami Dolphins tackle Jonathan Martin hasn’t complained to the organization about bullying by other players.
Martin left the Dolphins on Oct. 28 to receive help for emotional issues, raising questions about the role teasing from teammates played in his sudden departure.
“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 team said in a statement Sunday. “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.”
The Dolphins have attributed Martin’s absence to an illness not tied to football.
“The NFL offered its assistance during this time, which we appreciated and gladly accepted,” the statement said.
The NFL Players Association is not investigating Dolphins players regarding possible harassment, the statement said. On Saturday, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press the union planned to look into the matter in the coming week.
It’s unclear whether or when Martin is expected back. The Dolphins (4-4) had the weekend off and next play at Tampa Bay on Nov. 11.
Martin, a second-year pro from Stanford, played in Miami’s loss at New England on Oct. 27 and was at the Dolphins’ complex the next day before leaving the team. He missed Thursday night’s victory over Cincinnati.
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