Fitzpatrick returns to practice

Keeping an eye on the world of sports during the pandemic:

Ryan Fitzpatrick returned to the Miami Dolphins despite grieving the loss of his mother, who died over the weekend.

Fitzpatrick, a 16-year veteran who is projected as the Dolphins’ starting quarterback, sat out Saturday’s scrimmage at Hard Rock Stadium after his mother, Lori, died earlier that morning.

“On behalf of my family, I want to thank everyone who has reached out with well wishes,” Fitzpatrick said in a statement released by the team. “It truly means a lot to us.”

Dolphins coach Brian Flores, whose mother died of cancer before the start of the 2019 season, initially stated Fitzpatrick would take “as much time as he needs” away from the team. But on Monday Flores acknowledged that the team’s 2019 Most Valuable Player was in the facility, and expected to practice as the Miami began its third week of on-field work as the team prepares for its Sept. 13 season opener at New England.

“Like a lot of us, football is our sanctuary and it’s our place to get away from the tough times, pain and anguish in our lives,” Flores said Saturday. “I know he’ll probably try to get back as soon as he can, but we’re going to give him as much time as he wants or needs.”

That was apparently just a weekend, but it’s possible Fitzpatrick can depart again to attend his mother’s funeral.

“Really tough time for him and his family,” tight end Mike Gesicki said. ”I really feel for him and his family. He’s trying make sure he’s there [to support] everyone.”

Receiver added

The Dolphins signed receiver Andy Jones and waived linebacker James Crawford, who had been with the franchise since last September.

Jones had two stints on Miami’s practice squad during the 2019 season. The secondyear receiver has played in 11 games with three starts, totaling 11 receptions for 80 yards (7.3 avg.) and one touchdown. He’s also capable of handling kickoff and punt returns.

Crawford played in three games, mostly on special teams, with the Dolphins last year before being placed on injured reserve.

AMY BETH BENNETT / SUN SENTINEL Dolphins quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick during stretches prior to Monday’s practice in Davie. Fitzpatrick is back with the team after the death of his mother over the weekend.