Laremy Tunsil not present for Dolphins' introductory press conference
DAVIE, Fla. (AP) -- Mark down Laremy Tunsil as a no-show at his introductory news conference in South Florida because of an "allergic reaction."
Wags on Twitter diagnosed the problem as Tunsilitis.
The Miami Dolphins' first-round draft pick was unable to attend Friday because he became ill, team officials said. They said the cause hadn't been determined.
"Unfortunately, Laremy had an allergic reaction this afternoon, so right now he's with our medical staff," executive vice president of football operations Mike Tannenbaum said. "Hopefully it's just a quick, short-term thing."
Touted at one time as a potential No. 1 overall pick, the Mississippi tackle fell to 13th on Thursday after a video was posted on his Twitter account shortly before the draft showing him smoking from a gas mask connected to a bong.
Another post on his Instagram showed an alleged text exchange with an Ole Miss football staff member that included Tunsil's request for money.
Tunsil said Thursday that both accounts had been hacked -- a cyberattack likely costing him more than $10 million.
Eager media had assembled before the second day of the draft to hear more from Tunsil. Instead, the news conference was limited to Tannenbaum, general manager Chris Grier and coach Adam Gase, who all endorsed the decision to pick a player that 12 other teams passed on.
"A no-brainer," Gase said.
"A great moment for our organization," Tannenbaum said.
"Some people are saying this guy was the best player in the draft," Grier said.
Yeah, but. The bizarre social media posts reinforced Tunsil's reputation for off-field issues.
He sat out the 2015 season's first seven games after the NCAA ruled that he received improper benefits, including the use of three loaner cars over a six-month period. His stepfather reportedly filed a lawsuit against him Tuesday related to a confrontation in June, when the men were both charged with domestic violence against each other -- charges later dismissed.
The Dolphins have been stung before by players with character issues. A bullying scandal sabotaged their 2013 season, and their first-round pick three years ago, Dion Jordan, sat out last season serving a suspension for violating the NFL's drug policy.
Choosing players with good character remains a priority, Tannenbaum said.
"We remain committed to that," he said. "All of the decision makers in the room last night feel good about Laremy as a player and a person. Obviously there have been some bumps in the road, but we're comfortable with that. We think he has a bright future on the field as well as off."
Tunsil's new teammates expressed support for him.
"Welcome to the fam Laremy ... we got you," running back Jay Ajayi tweeted.
"Congrats Laremy, time to get to work!!!" receiver DeVante Parker tweeted.
Because Tunsil has had conduct involving substance abuse, he could be referred for evaluation and possible entry into the league substance-abuse program. He would undergo counseling but there would be no discipline involved.
Tackle wasn't a priority for the Dolphins, who have two established starters at the position. Tunsil could play guard, Gase said.
"We'll figure out a way to get him on the field, whether it is as a guard or tackle," Gase said.
