NFL Suspends Owner Stephen Ross After Investigation

Miami Dolphins Owner Stephen Ross has been suspended till mid-October and fined $1.5 million dollars after a six-month. The investigation stems from the racial discrimination accusations made by former coach Brian Flores. These allegations also include that tanking and offering coach Brian Flores money to lose for a better draft position. During the investigation the NFL found evidence of tampering linked to Tom Brady and Sean Payton.

The Dolphins were penalized for improper contact with QB Tom Brady from not only 2021, but from the 2019 season. They were also in contact with former head coach Sean Payton to unite the two for a season in Miami.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said, “I know of no prior instance of a team violating the prohibition on tampering with both a head coach and star player, to the potential detriment of multiple other clubs, over a period of several years. Similarly, I know of no prior instance in which ownership was so directly involved in the violations.” Goodell also added he felt the violations were “of unprecedented scope and severity.”

The Dolphins also forfeit one of their two first round draft picks in 2023 and a third in 2024. Ross is suspended until October 17th. Dolphins vice chairman Bruce Beal was also fined $500,000.

“The independent investigation cleared our organization on any issues related to tanking and all of Brian Flores allegations,” Ross also stated. “As I had said all along, these allegations were false….and this issue is now put to rest.” Ross is now looking to put it all behind him and not let distactions get in the way of this season.