Following his comments on Twitter regarding Rams draft pick Michael Sam, the Dolphins announced that safety Don Jones has been fined and excused from all team activities. He will return following the completion of an educational training.
Quote from coach Joe Philbin:
“We were disappointed to read Don’s tweets during the NFL Draft. They were inappropriate and unacceptable, and we regret the negative impact these comments had on such an important weekend for the NFL. We met with Don today about respect, discrimination and judgment. These comments are not consistent with the values and standards of our program. We will continue to emphasize and educate our players that these statements will not be tolerated.”
Quote from Jones:
“I want to apologize to Michael Sam for the inappropriate comments that I made last night on social media. I take full responsibility for them and I regret that these tweets took away from his draft moment. I remember last year when I was drafted in the seventh round and all of the emotions and happiness I felt when I received the call that gave me an opportunity to play for an NFL team and I wish him all the best in his NFL career. I sincerely apologize to Mr. Ross, my teammates, coaches, staff and fans for these tweets. I am committed to represent the values of the Miami Dolphins organization and appreciate the opportunity I have been given to do so going forward.”
The 23-year-old was picked by the Dolphins in the seventh round of last year’s draft. He appeared in all 16 games last season, finishing with ten tackles and one forced fumble.