*** DOLPHINS NEWS ***

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Jul 03, 1996: -- Thomas to Sign; Klingbeil Files Grievance --

Former Dolphins nose tackle Chuck Klingbeil has filed an injury grievance against the Dolphins for wrongfully releasing him while he was recovering from a football related injury.

After participating in the first mini-camp, Klingbeil had arthoscopic surgery on his shoulder on May 9th. He then sat out the second mini-camp and was cut on June 6th. The official explanation was that he failed his physical, but it is known that he refused to take a pay cut to stay with the team, so that was undoubtedly a contributing factor.

The grievance was filed on June 28th and the Dolphins have seven days to respond. After that happens, Klingbeil will be examined by an independent doctor and the case goes before an arbitrator who renders a decision.

If the arbitrator rules in favor of Klingbeil, he could receive his entire 1996 salary and that money would also count against the salary cap. On the other hand, if the arbitrator rules in favor of the Dolphins, Klingbeil will receive nothing.

In other news, fifth round draft pick Zach Thomas has agreed to a 3 year contract for a reported league minimum salary and an $86,000 signing bonus. His deal would pay him $131,000 this year, $164,000 in 1997 and $196,000 in 1998.

And last of all, the Miami Herald is reporting that Wayne Huizenga and American Airlines are close to signing a deal that would change the name of Joe Robbie Stadium to a new name that would include a reference to American Airlines.

While the final name hasn't been set, it will definitely allude to American's sponsorship of the stadium.

My Comments:

It's a shame that Chuck Klingbeil's career has come to this. He was always a hard worker and a consistent performer on a defensive line better known for what they lacked than what they produced.

The signing of another rookie is always good news and Thomas is one that particularly excites me. His college career was tremendous and the Dolphins are lucky to have him.

The American Airlines deal is just another example of sports turning into big business. It's a fact of life, but I don't have to like it - and I don't.

Related Info:

Miami Herald:

Klingbeil files grievance against Dolphins

Miami Herald:

JRS name change is `on course'