Report: Family says former Rutgers player was bullied

Nov 16, 2013 - 7:34 PM (SportsNetwork.com) - Rutgers is back in the national spotlight for another bullying scandal.

Former Rutgers cornerback Jevon Tyree and his parents have sought disciplinary action against defensive coordinator Dave Cohen after "an outright bullying episode" led him to quit the team earlier this month, according to NJ.com.

The news comes just seven months after men's basketball coach Mike Rice was fired for bullying his players, which also led to the resignation of athletic director Tim Pernetti.

Tyree and his parents told the website Cohen used two profane terms and threatened to head-butt him during a study hall session. The incident occurred in April, the same month of the Rice fallout.

Rutgers released the following statement Friday night:

"The situation between Jevon Tyree and Dave Cohen took place in the spring and was dealt with immediately.

"Cohen apologized the following day for his participation in the escalation of banter, which resulted in the use of inappropriate language. (Head football coach) Kyle Flood reprimanded Cohen and addressed the situation immediately with the entire coaching staff.

"This was an isolated incident. At no time was there any threat of physical violence, which was verified by an academic counselor, who was present in the room.

"Six months later, Tyree's father contacted director of athletics Julie Hermann to discuss Jevon's role on the team and how coaching decisions were made. During the conversation with Hermann, Tyree's father reintroduced the March situation.

"Since the situation occurred prior to Hermann's arrival, she immediately contacted Flood, who apprised her of the situation and how it was addressed.

"To be sure, Flood initiated an additional meeting with Tyree and his parents to address their concerns and his future with the team. The following morning, Sept. 17, Tyree informed Flood of his intention to remain with the program.

"Hermann spoke to Tyree's father following the meeting with Flood and confirmed that the matter was resolved to his satisfaction."

But Tyree's father, Mark, told NJ.com he has never spoken to Hermann.

This report coincides with an NFL investigation into claims by Miami Dolphins offensive tackle Jonathan Martin that he was bullied and harassed by fellow lineman Richie Incognito.