The decision to release Chad Johnson shortly after the six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver was arrested in a domestic violence case was not a reactionary one, the head coach of the Miami Dolphins said Monday.
The move brought a swift end to Johnson's tenure with the Dolphins, where he was hoping to rejuvenate his NFL career, after a dismal season with the New England Patriots.
"As with any type of these decisions, it was not an easy one, it was not reactive, nor was it based on one single incident," Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin told reporters.
"In making these decisions, we base our evaluations on a set of criteria that support our organizational goals and include a player's performance both on and off the field."
Johnson signed with the Dolphins on June 11, seeking a fresh start following a season in which he had 15 receptions for 276 yards and one touchdown.
The Dolphins issued a statement late Sunday to say they cut Johnson, about 24 hours after he was arrested on suspicion of domestic violence after he allegedly head-butted his wife during an argument.
