DAVIE, Fla. -- Veteran Miami Dolphins players offered overwhelming support for suspended guard Richie Incognito on Wednesday, while also displaying anger toward second-year offensive tackle Jonathan Martin, who left the team last week after claims of harassment and misconduct.

"I think if you have a problem with somebody -- a legitimate problem with somebody -- you should say, 'I have a problem with this,' and stand up and be a man," offensive tackle Tyson Clabo said. "I don't think what happened is necessary. I don't know why he's doing this, and the only person who knows why is Jonathan Martin."

Multiple sources confirmed to ESPN on Monday that Incognito used racial epithets and profane language toward Martin on multiple occasions. In a transcript of a voice mail message from April, Incognito referred to Martin as a "half n----- piece of s---," and added, "F--- you, you're still a rookie. I'll kill you."

Representatives for Martin have turned over evidence of harassment to the Dolphins, the NFL and the NFL Players Association.

Attorney Ted Wells has been appointed by commissioner Roger Goodell to direct an independent investigation into the Dolphins' workplace conduct. That report will be made public.

NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith released a statement Thursday saying he has been in contact with Dolphins players.

"I continue to be in touch with players in Miami, their representatives and player leadership, and I look forward to information that defines the full scope of the NFL's investigation," he said. "Every NFL player should expect safe and professional working conditions. The NFLPA has taken steps to ensure that every one of our affected members is represented. It is our duty as a union to learn the full facts, protect the interests of players involved and hold management accountable to the highest standards of fairness and transparency."

ProFootballTalk.com, citing multiple league sources, reported that Martin's agent, Rick Smith, called Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland before his client left the team Oct. 28 and complained about the manner in which the second-year player was being treated by Incognito.

In response, Ireland suggested Martin respond to Incognito physically and specifically mentioned that he should "punch" the veteran guard, the sources told ProFootballTalk.com.

Some Dolphins players were aware of the contents in the voice mail, but many defended Incognito against claims that he is racist and intended to harm Martin.