Dolphins Release Daunte Culpepper

The Dolphins released quarterback Daunte Culpepper today following a disappointing 2006 season and grievance case.

Last year, Culpepper was attempting to come back from major knee surgery that he had while a member of the Minnesota Vikings. He struggled in 4 games last year, compiling 929 yards with a completion percentage of 60.4%, and throwing for 2 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. His knee was clearly still bothering him, as he was sacked 21 times and ran for only 20 yards. Previously when he was a star with the Vikings, his legs were a great asset to his game.

A breach-of-contract grievance filed by the NFL Players Association for Culpepper was going to be heard on Wednesday when Miami told Culpepper that he was not being allowed to fully participate in offseason practices.

Culpepper said of this,"As I was going through this process I heard about a quote by Gandhi that best expresses my thoughts about this victory: 'First they ignore you, then they ridicule you, then they fight you, then you win. Now that I have won my freedom and I get to choose my next team, I am just like many other people who have to go out and find employment so that I can take care of my family."

So the question now is where Daunte Culpepper will end up. The Jacksonville Jaguars are thought to possibly be a destination for Culpepper. I will discuss other some other time.

The Dolphins tried to trade Culpepper, but he threatened to block any trade. We'll have to wait and see what teams express interest in him, and sign him. I don't look for him to be a starter, but to fill a back-up role while continuing his rehab.

So, this is an end to Miami's experiment with Culpepper, who they acquired in a trade last year. At the time, I thought that the Dolphins made a great move, but it has turned out worst that almost anyone expected.