DAVIE, Fla. — Joey Porter's widely anticipated parting with the Miami Dolphins has been delayed by a bizarre hitch.

The Dolphins announced the release of the disgruntled linebacker Friday. Less than three hours later, they said the move was "determined to be an invalid termination." Therefore, he reverted to the Dolphins' roster — for now.

The Dolphins declined to elaborate, as did the NFL. Porter's agent didn't respond to phone messages.

A four-time Pro Bowl linebacker named in January to the NFL's All-Decade team, Porter campaigned last week to be waived. In broadcast interviews he said he was frustrated about his reduced role in 2009 and doubted his relationship with coach Tony Sparano could be repaired.