As of today, Dolphins guard Richie Incognito will have missed his sixth straight game. As of tomorrow, Incognito will be eligible to return to work.
Jay Glazer of FOX Sports reports that the Dolphins will make their final decision on Monday regarding the handling of Incognito for the balance of the season. Per Glazer, the Dolphins plan to extend Incognito’s paid suspension through the end of the season.
But there’s a catch. Incognito would have to agree to it. Under the current labor deal, teams can’t send the player home with pay, unless the player agrees.
For the past two weeks, Incognito has agreed to be paid not to play. If he decides to draw a line in the sand and force the team’s hand, they’d have to decide whether to welcome him back or cut him.
The wild card remains owner Stephen Ross. He has said he was “appalled” by the voice message Incognito left for tackle Jonathan Martin. If Ross doesn’t want Incognito to return and if Incognito doesn’t want to be paid more than $470,000 to not play, Incognito could -- in theory -- be on the waiver wire by Monday at 4:00 p.m. ET.
Peter King has reported that at least one playoff contender would be interested in Incognito. All playoff contenders, and all non-playoff contenders, possibly have a shot at claiming Incognito’s contract, soon.