D.J. Fluker‘s stint in Miami has already come to an end. After being placed on injured reserve last week, the veteran offensive lineman was released with an injury settlement today (per Adam Beasley of Pro Football Network on Twitter).
The Dolphins assured that Fluker wouldn’t play for the team this season when they placed him on IR. However, it was suspected that an injury settlement could take place, in which case Fluker would be free to sign (and play) elsewhere. While the former first-round pick underwent meniscus surgery on Thursday, he’s expected to be ready to play within a month. We also heard that a conditioning issue could have led to Fluker’s demise in Miami, and Beasley tweets that the offensive lineman showed up to camp eight pounds heavier than his 2020 weight.
The Dolphins could have four rookie-contract starters on the offensive line, and Fluker was expected to provide a veteran presence to that grouping. Now, the young offensive line corps will have to turn to veterans like Matt Skura, who is vying for the Dolphins’ starting center role, and versatile lineman Jesse Davis.
Fluker, 30, spent last season with the Ravens, with whom he started eight games. Prior to that, Fluker spent two years as a Seahawks guard starter. He previously played with the Giants and Chargers, who chose him in the 2013 first round. His latest injury (and the note about his conditioning) certainly doesn’t bode well for the 30-year-old. However, with 96 career regular season starts on his resume, the offensive lineman will surely find another gig once he’s healthy. He signed for the veteran minimum without any fully guaranteed money earlier this offseason, so the lineman won’t be looking to break the bank.
DJ Fluker injured say it ain’t so. His Vet leadership will be jumping offsides and holding. I am not sure how 8 lbs was a lot to a 300lb OL but he never looked to be in great shape. Someone will probably pick him up for depth Seattle might be that team but doubt it.
Please stop putting all these crappy OL in Seattle unis. I am sure you could find him holding in a Ravens uni. You might find one of him hustling in his pee wee uni. Is Seattle the default when you type in crappy OL? We have had our share but seems they sign another contract with another team.
He could be a candidate for a backup job with Gettleman’s Giants.
Steelers need some warm bodies on the OL.
Yes but hopefully not DJ. He’s seemingly been an enigma and a head case his whole career.