Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel intervened to break up two fights during Friday’s practice, one of three incidents that occurred during the team’s red zone drills. The scuffles involved Dolphins wide receiver Dee Eskridge and Bears safety Kevin Byard, as well as Dolphins center Aaron Brewer and Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson.
In a statement after practice, Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick expressed his concern for McDaniel’s safety but acknowledged the need for coaches to step in. “I think that’s very dangerous – we need our head coach, you know what I’m saying?” Fitzpatrick said.
The incidents come as Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel has made clear his disdain for fighting at practice, citing the importance of focusing on drills and game prep. Bears coach Ben Johnson had also warned his players about the consequences of engaging in fights during practice.
Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks, who is known for holding his teammates to high standards, was involved in another incident with an unidentified teammate on the sideline. Fitzpatrick praised Brooks’ passion for the game and his leadership qualities, but acknowledged that emotions can sometimes boil over.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45927444/mike-mcdaniel-breaks-dolphins-bears-skirmish-joint-practice