At a time when we’re learning more about things that happened in the past regarding Dolphins guard Richie Incognito, the future remains a mystery.
Per a league source with knowledge of the situation, Incognito’s suspension for conduct detrimental to the Dolphins is indefinite. Under the labor deal between the NFL and the players’ union, however, the suspension can last a maximum of four games.
This means that, unless the Dolphins suspend Incognito for fewer than four games, the Dolphins will have to decide what to do with him by Monday, December 2 -- the day after the fourth game of any suspension.
The options are limited. The Dolphins will have to reinstate him to the roster or cut him. (In theory, he also could be suspended again, if he gives them grounds to do so.)
If he’s cut, he’d be subject to waivers. Since Incognito is in the final year of his contract, it’s unlikely that any non-contender would want him. As Peter King reported on Football Night in America, at least one playoff contender would be interested in adding him to the roster.
Absent a suspension from the NFL that would sideline Incognito for the rest of the year, he’ll have a chance to play in 2013. If the Dolphins don’t want him, chances are someone else will.