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Dolphins coach Nick Saban is not closing the door on a potential return by Ricky Williams, but Saban apparently has questions about the retired RB's commitment to playing again. -- Miami Herald |
Ricky Williams, even when he was in college, had problems. From day one in his NFL career, we all knew he was going to be different, and when he left the Dolphins high and dry, most of us were not that surprised. My perspective is that the only reason he is contemplating returning to football is because of all the money he owes the Dolphins, not because he is ready to come back. Just for that reason, I would have a very hard time allowing him to return.
The Dolphins obviously are thinking the same way, but they also have an opportunity to bring him back for a minimal investment, because, after all, he owes them money, not the other way around. If they bring him back, and he plays like he is capable of playing, then they benefit and so does he. If he decides to leave again, they would pretty much be in the same situation they are in now, but he would still owe them money. That's the only reason I can see them contemplating letting him back on the team.
Ricky has had a great time touring the world and smoking pot. The money has run out and he has to pay. The Dolphins need their runningback to return and it really doesn't cost them much more because of the contract. I forsee Ricky returning for 2 yrs to clear up his financial obligations, but, I am very interested in the conditions that the Dolphins place on his return. He can come back, but, I know the Dolphins want there runningback to show up, not someone who will play like they dont want to be hurt for the next 2 years.
I don't think he really should be allowed back, but, I am not really sure that it is fair to the Dolphins organization to expell him forever. This really should be a warning of buyer beware for the rest of the league!
Vincenzo
If Ricky Williams does return, the other question will be "What will the team chemistry be like?". In the game of football, as in most other team sports, team chemistry is a vital part of winning. Even though Williams is a skilled back as was evident in the few years he played in the League, I am not so sure his return to the Dolphins is in their best interest.
I agree. However, Ricky will be a nice stop-gap replacement until they can find another quality back. They really need so much on this team. If they can keep the RB spot filled for a couple of years they can focus on those other glaring holes and then get a back. They really need a QB and the offensive line needs some help. In addition, they will need to spend some money in the defensive backfield with Surtain leaving. If they can get Ricky to put down the smoke for a couple of years and play some ball, I think it allows them to focus on those other areas. It usually takes a few years for a QB to mature. A RB can many times come right in and make a impact as a rookie. When Ricky is done after his couple of years service, then their new QB could be ready.
Good thing neither of us are huge Dolphin fans...they will have it rough for a while!
Vincenzo
I will be curious to see how his team mates react towards his. Sure they need him, but they aren't going to like a quitter. Im not sure how much he will really help, but we will see I suppose. He was always a good runner, lets see how he runs in a high stress environment like an angry locker room!
Fourth violation draws one-year suspension for Williams
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NEW YORK -- Ricky Williams will sit out another season. The NFL suspended the troubled Miami Dolphins running back for one year Tuesday after he violated the league's substance abuse policy for the fourth time. |