Joe Philbin has given a lot of press conferences since taking over as Miami Dolphins head coach. None have felt more important than the one he gave Monday following guard Richie Incognito's suspension from the team.
Philbin spoke for nearly five minutes about the circumstances that led to offensive tackle Jonathan Martin leaving the team, and subsequently led to Incognito's suspension.
Philbin revealed that he met Martin last Monday evening, after Martin initially left the team following an incident in the team's cafeteria. The coach continued to speak with Martin and his family throughout the week.
"In all my discussions with Jonathan and members of his family at no time were there any accusations or allegations of misconduct by any members of this team or this organization," Philbin said.
The Dolphins subsequently notified the NFL on Sunday about alleged player misconduct. NFL Media's Albert Breer obtained a transcript of a voice mail left by Incognito for Martin that threatened Martin and used racial slurs. The NFL and the Dolphins have heard the voice mail.
After gathering more information Sunday, Philbin suspended Incognito for conduct detrimental to the team.
Philbin spoke Monday without notes for nearly five minutes, often forcefully. He compared the situation to sending his two children to school nearby.
"When they walk in those doors, I have a certain expectations," the coach said. "That the administration, the teachers, the staff are going to create a safe atmosphere where my children can learn and develop as people. And this is no different. I take this responsibility very seriously."
Philbin referred most questions to the NFL's ongoing investigation of Martin's situation.
"If the review shows that this is not a safe atmosphere, I'll take whatever measures necessary to make sure that it is," Philbin said.
In the meantime, Philbin said his entire focus is on winning next Monday night against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He will be challenged as the Dolphins' leader to minimize the distraction of a deeply uncomfortable story.
The "Around The League Podcast" recapped every Week 9 game. Click here to listen and subscribe.
