The Dolphins introduced a new general manager on Tuesday, but owner Stephen Ross also answered questions about a matter that’s been pending since Jeff Ireland was still in that role.
Ross confirmed that the report compiled by NFL investigator Ted Wells on the accusations of harassment leveled by tackle Jonathan Martin against guard Richie Incognito will be released after the Super Bowl. Ross said the team has a good idea about what the report will say and that they have a good idea about what they’ll do after the report is released.
“I have an idea what will be in it. I’ve been in communication with the NFL. I’ve spoken with Ted Wells who is handling the investigation,” Ross said, via Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald. “I haven’t seen the report. I don’t know exactly it’s conclusions. I believe based on my conversations that ... well, let’s put it this way, I don’t want to really speculate. When it comes out, we’ll do what has to be done but we’ve already ... in my mind I know what direction we’re going. Stay tuned.”
Ross gave a pretty big hint about that direction when he answered “I don’t believe so” to a question about either player returning to the Dolphins. Ross quickly retracted the statement, noting that Incognito is a free agent and that Martin remains under contract in Miami. If the Dolphins would like to trade Martin, it certainly hurts them to say that he’ll be released if they can’t.
Ross’ slip of the tongue is out there, though, and Salguero also suggests the recent hiring of John Benton as an assistant line coach may be a hedge against possible discipline for offensive line coach Jim Turner.
Martin spoke with Tony Dungy in an interview that will be on NBC Nightly News on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. ET. The interview will also air on Pro Football Talk on NBCSN on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. ET.