Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Dolphins Look at ex-Navy Star

Former Navy fullback Kyle Eckel, who faced a five-year military commitment when he graduated in 2005, is practicing with the Miami Dolphins.

The Navy Times, a weekly newspaper, reports Eckel was "kicked out" of the Navy. The Navy Office of Information says he was "administratively separated" Oct. 31 and will not disclose the reason because of "personal privacy."

Lt. Ryan Perry, a Navy spokesman, said Tuesday, "His discharge was not related to his pursuit of a football career." He said Eckel owes the Navy $96,229.56 to repay a portion of the educational costs.

Eckel was in 2005 training camp with the New England Patriots (using military leave). After being waived, he was claimed by the Dolphins, who put him on the "reserve/military" list. They moved him Nov. 2 to the "exempt/commissioner's permission" list, which could enable him to practice without counting on the 53-man roster.

The Miami Herald on Tuesday quoted Eckel, "I was given the opportunity to submit a letter of resignation, which was accepted."

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