Miami Dolphins offensive linemen Richie Incognito and Jonathan Martin most likely will never be teammates again. But Incognito took a good step forward Tuesday in potentially resuming his NFL career.
The Dolphins lifted the three-month suspension of Incognito. It was an administrative move that doesn't determine guilt or innocence in Miami's high-profile bullying scandal. But it allows Incognito to move on with his career and become an unrestricted free agent in March.
Incognito even made a nice gesture via Twitter to support Martin:
--- I support @J_Martin71 100% in his return to football in 2014 ----
@NFL @NFLPA @DeSmithNFLPA @nflcommish
— Richie Incognito (@68INCOGNITO) February 4, 2014This was a good move and a smart move by Incognito. It shows that he is not holding on to ill will and is ready to move on. Distancing himself from this bullying scandal as quickly as possible is the best chance for Incognito to find a new team next season.
There is a lot of evidence that suggests Incognito and Martin communicated often. Was it a regular friendship or twisted friendship? Did something go wrong between the two? Is Martin to blame? That's what the Ted Wells report must determine.
Either way, Incognito and Martin will face unique challenges trying to get jobs in the NFL next season. However, Incognito took a step in the right direction Tuesday, despite plenty of work left to be done.