Lawrence Timmons wasn't with the team Sunday in their win against the Los Angeles Chargers. Timmons went AWOL the night before the game and didn't let anybody know where he went or that he left in the first place. His presence wasn't needed, as the defense played well and was able to hold the opposition to 17 points. The Dolphins haven't shared much information about why Timmons went missing, but they did share the news that he is now suspended indefinitely. This is a quick punishment, as it is only two days after the game and very little information on Timmons' whereabouts has been shared.
Without a trace
Timmons went missing saturday night from the team hotel without informing any teammates or team officials. When the Dolphins figured out Timmons was gone, they began searching for him and even filed a missing persons report for the linebacker. Timmons signed a two-year, $10 million deal in March. He hasn't played a regular season snap for the team because of Hurricane Irma canceling the Dolphins' first game and because he missed this past game. Sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter that Timmons left the team for a "personal matter."
The Dolphins made the decision to suspend their linebacker today, but they haven't decided if any further action will be taken. According to ESPN's Jeff Darlington, head coach Adam Gase still isn't happy that Timmons left the team without informing anyone and hasn't been satisfied with any of the excuses he has heard at this point.
This suspension is tricky because this would be categorized as detrimental conduct. Under the new collective bargaining agreement, a player can only be suspended up to four games for such a violation. Nobody knows if Timmons will miss any more games at all.
Replacement plan
Lawrence Timmons is a dominant linebacker, making all the right plays when he is on the field.
He started in 101 straight games before Sunday, showing his consistency as a player. The Dolphins had Chase Allen started in place of Timmons and he recorded four sacks in the game. The long-term solution if Timmons serves his suspension is former Bengals linebacker Rey Maualuga. Maualuga was signed to the team in August. He is currently in the process of getting back in game shape, as he reportedly came to the team overweight.
He played eight years with the Bengals. The Dolphins have had a trying start to the season with Hurricane Irma and losing Ryan Tannehill to injury. Things are looking up, though, as they are 1-0 and are preparing to face the Jets this week.
