It appears Brandon Marshall is ready to play wide receiver for the New York Jets on Saturday against the Dolphins and officiate the game as well. At his locker on Thursday, the 32-year-old held up a yellow penalty flag and declared his intentions.
"This Saturday night, I will be assisting the refs," Marshall said. "I will be carrying my own flag, just in case he decides to conduct himself the same way."
Marshall is referring to Dolphins cornerback Byron Maxwell, who Marshall has called out previously for holding. "I don't know him, but I don't like him" he said before the first Jets-Dolphins meeting in November. "He seems like a really nice guy, but because he holds every single play, I don't like him."
In that game, a 27-23 Dolphins victory, officials flagged Maxwell twice for defensive pass interference, though one call was declined in favor of a roughing the passer penalty on the same play.
Marshall acknowledged "progress" on the part of Maxwell this season who is enjoying a nice bounce back under new defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.
In all likelihood Marshall is just goofing around and drawing attention to Maxwell for his own benefit, which is certainly within bounds. But if he actually does carry and throw a flag, he can be sure to expect some kind of fine for using a prop or for a uniform violation.
"It depends on how Roger wants to play it," Marshall said. "I'm just here to help."
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.