Weve known about it for some time and, obviously, weve been dealing with it, the coach said. First and foremost, were very, very disappointed in his choices and his decisions. Its selfish, it hurts the team, but we also see it as an opportunity to learn from a mistake. We discussed it with the entire squad last night and I think everybody understands the responsibility that each and every player has as far as taking care of himself and what you can do and what you cant do."
...
Will Witherspoon, in his 12th NFL season, will replace Dunbar in the starting lineup during the suspension and began getting some work alongside fellow starters James Laurinaitis and rookie Alec Ogletree during Thursdays practice.
Fisher said the team was aware of Dunbars impending suspension when it signed Witherspoon to a one-year deal in mid July.
But that wasnt why we signed Will, Fisher said, equating Dunbars absence to the loss of an injured player.
It would make total sense for us right now to move Will Witherspoon up, the coach said. Were glad hes here; hes started a lot of games. Then, well make a decision when Jo-Lonn comes back as to whos going to take that position.
In other words, theres no guarantee the job will be Dunbars once he returns.
