Ricky's impressing the coaches w/ his work ethic?/ (1 Viewer)

[burd]

he hasn't taken much of a pounding the past few years, so he's a fresh 31 years old, but i don't think he'll be trusted to shoulder the load. im guessing that unless there's a rash of injuries, Ricky isn't moving up past #2 in the pecking order.

RICKY WILLIAMS WORKING HARD

Posted by Michael David Smith on June 5, 2008, 1:38 p.m.

Dolphins running back Ricky Williams has, for the first time in five years, a full off-season to get himself ready to play. And the coaches in Miami are raving about his preparation.

”Within his individual drills, I see the guy working hard to get better,” Dolphins coach Tony Sparano said, per Jeff Darlington of the Miami Herald. “I think the guy shows up each day, and he has a purpose when he practices. He wants to get better at something each and every day. When you sit down and talk to him, he’ll tell you those things.”

Williams announced his retirement before the 2004 season, came back after serving a four-game drug suspension in 2005, spent 2006 in Canada after being suspended for the entire season, and then finally returned to the NFL in November of 2007, only to suffer a season-ending injury in his first game back.

Now he says that he likes what he’s doing in Miami, and that he’s working harder than ever.

”It’s different around here,” Williams said. “This is the hardest I’ve worked. [Former] coach [Nick] Saban worked us pretty hard, but I think this new regime is making every single person on the field prove themselves. Not just prove they can play football — but prove they are going to lay it on the line on a consistent basis.”

The 31-year-old Williams likely doesn’t have much gas left in the tank, but he says he’s going to prove that he will, in fact, lay it on the line this year.

 

[bcr8f]

I do. Everything I've heard says he has turned his life around. People do succeed at quitting drugs and alcohol you know. The odds are stacked against it but it does happen.

So far it looks like he could be the top back until Brown finishes rehab and that may be a few games into the season. That's what I've heard.

It's his last shot and he knows it.

He's always been a hard worker. That wasn't his problem. When in Miami it was run Ricky and play defense. He said he smoked after work to relieve stress.

 

[Byron_nyc]

Don't forget the immense discipline and work that Ricky showed in high school and college -- he didn't break all those records and win the Heisman without having enormous focus for many years.

The guy is older and wiser and people do come back from drugs and alchohol and have incredibly productive careers. I think it would be terrific for Ricky to be one of them.

That said, I am not going to draft him. I just think this team, if Brown can't go and even in Ricky plays well, will be getting some young RBs touches as they are looking ahead.

 

[bcr8f]

Don't forget the immense discipline and work that Ricky showed in high school and college -- he didn't break all those records and win the Heisman without having enormous focus for many years.The guy is older and wiser and people do come back from drugs and alchohol and have incredibly productive careers. I think it would be terrific for Ricky to be one of them.That said, I am not going to draft him. I just think this team, if Brown can't go and even in Ricky plays well, will be getting some young RBs touches as they are looking ahead.

Well said. We need some success stories too.

 

[TheFanatic]

The real question is, when will Brown be healthy? He didn't get the surgery till something like week 8 last year. Most guys are out a full year after that. If that's the case, Ricky could be a real asset for the first few games and even the first couple of games Brown is back as I don't see them rushing Brown back to 20 carries his first game back.

 

[Wildman]

Few like taking a chance on being foolish by saying they like someone to turn their life around and take things up a notch. It makes that person look naive. I don't mind taking that chance on Williams. Having brains, ability, and work ethic is nothing that was ever questioned of him. Having confidence, self-esteem, and a stable set of life skills has been his downfall.

The big question is the obvious, can he do it at 31-years of age like he did in his early to mid twenties?

For a year, maybe two? I think so.

Parcells and his henchmen may be opportunists, but they have a low tolerance for guys who aren't good football players and that also means those days between games as well as Sundays and Mondays.

 

[TheFanatic]

Few like taking a chance on being foolish by saying they like someone to turn their life around and take things up a notch. It makes that person look naive. I don't mind taking that chance on Williams. Having brains, ability, and work ethic is nothing that was ever questioned of him. Having confidence, self-esteem, and a stable set of life skills has been his downfall.

The big question is the obvious, can he do it at 31-years of age like he did in his early to mid twenties?

For a year, maybe two? I think so.

Parcells and his henchmen may be opportunists, but they have a low tolerance for guys who aren't good football players and that also means those days between games as well as Sundays and Mondays.

Why wouldn't they run the guy into the ground? If he can stay healthy, I think the give D's a heavy dose of Ricky. And when Brown is back, Ricky could spell brown who hasn't carried the full load for 16 games. Ronnie may have to be in a Barber/Jones like committee to be productive and stay on the field...

 

[Bizkiteer]

His abilities and work ethic was never in question. Coaches have always loved Ricky as he is a great teammate and player. What is questioned his his desire to continue to play and some of his off-field decision making process.

 

[twr]

it will be a RBBC this year with ricky and brown, no questions asked. i see ricky getting 60/40 to begin with, while they work brown back into shape, and make sure they limit his knee. brown SHOULD be the full time starter by this time next year.

 

[Sweet Love]

it will be a RBBC this year with ricky and brown, no questions asked. i see ricky getting 60/40 to begin with, while they work brown back into shape, and make sure they limit his knee. brown SHOULD be the full time starter by this time next year.

I agree. As long as an able body is there, no need to rush Brown back. I also think Parcells would relish the role of being the guy to get something out of Ricky...never underestimate the Tuna's ego...I'll never forget the game he fed Murrell (with the Jets) the ball 30+ times just to prove he could handle the load.

 

[the hairy scotsman]

Ricky's impressing the coaches w/ his work ethic?/, i don't believe it!!

Ricky's issues have never been associated with or manifested as poor work ethic.When he's with a team, he's one of the hardest workers on the team...a beast in the weight room and on the field.

 

[Bears_Man2]

Like others have said, Ricky's never had issues with his work ethic. His decisions off the field were his issues.

I project Ricky to finish in the Top 30 RB's this year (envision a 60/40 Brown-Williams load)

 

[Portis 26]

The shark move in dynasty terms is presumably to have picked up Ricky last year after he got hurt and now to wait till there a bunch of great press on him over the summer and pre-season before trading when his value is max.

Ultimately, he doesn't have much long-term value, so the trick would be to sell high at the right point.

 

[bcr8f]

Few like taking a chance on being foolish by saying they like someone to turn their life around and take things up a notch. It makes that person look naive. I don't mind taking that chance on Williams. Having brains, ability, and work ethic is nothing that was ever questioned of him. Having confidence, self-esteem, and a stable set of life skills has been his downfall. The big question is the obvious, can he do it at 31-years of age like he did in his early to mid twenties? For a year, maybe two? I think so. Parcells and his henchmen may be opportunists, but they have a low tolerance for guys who aren't good football players and that also means those days between games as well as Sundays and Mondays.

This morning I read his contract is up in a year and he'd like to play one more year. Last year players were raving about his speed in camp. I guess we'll see. 2 years sounds about right.

 

[TheFanatic]

The shark move in dynasty terms is presumably to have picked up Ricky last year after he got hurt and now to wait till there a bunch of great press on him over the summer and pre-season before trading when his value is max.Ultimately, he doesn't have much long-term value, so the trick would be to sell high at the right point.

I actually snagged him 3 years ago in an initial dynasty draft. DEEP league. Grabbed him in like the 25th round. He's been on my bench ever since. Maybe I need to be talking to the Brown owner right now?

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

guess he finally realizes he can wait until after he retires and he can smoke all he wants

 

[Portis 26]

The shark move in dynasty terms is presumably to have picked up Ricky last year after he got hurt and now to wait till there a bunch of great press on him over the summer and pre-season before trading when his value is max.Ultimately, he doesn't have much long-term value, so the trick would be to sell high at the right point.

I actually snagged him 3 years ago in an initial dynasty draft. DEEP league. Grabbed him in like the 25th round. He's been on my bench ever since. Maybe I need to be talking to the Brown owner right now?

Not right now, maybe in a month or two, when there is sure to more positive Ricky press and the Brown owner is getting a little nervous about his guy's comeback from ACL.

 

[TheFanatic]

The shark move in dynasty terms is presumably to have picked up Ricky last year after he got hurt and now to wait till there a bunch of great press on him over the summer and pre-season before trading when his value is max.Ultimately, he doesn't have much long-term value, so the trick would be to sell high at the right point.

I actually snagged him 3 years ago in an initial dynasty draft. DEEP league. Grabbed him in like the 25th round. He's been on my bench ever since. Maybe I need to be talking to the Brown owner right now?

Not right now, maybe in a month or two, when there is sure to more positive Ricky press and the Brown owner is getting a little nervous about his guy's comeback from ACL.

The Brown owner also has Lynch. If Goodell cracks down on Lynch for the hit and run he will be hurting for the first few weeks of the season. I was sure to mention this in the trade offer...

 

[grouse]

A 30+ year old running back, with brand name recognition and a bad history - screams 'overvalued' to me. I don't see anything compelling about drafting Ricky Williams this year except as a handcuff for the Ronnie owner, and even that could prove too costly if there are other owners in the league that are partying like it's 2003 and have an inflated view of Ricky's value and are willing to poach him a round or two earlier than he should go.

Where is the upside?

He's 31 years old, running behind a sub-par offensive line, no consistent passing threat to keep defenses from stacking the box and playing behind a younger, more talented runner.

I don't even care about his off-field history anymore, it's irrelevant at this point.

Even if Ronnie Brown had a major setback and Ricky were starting the year atop the depth chart, I would still avoid him. Ronnie was exceptional last year because he's an exceptional young running back. Ricky is neither exceptional nor young. And when coupled with the fact that the Dolphins will be trailing early and often in games this year, Ricky seems like a waste of conversation to me.

 

[TheFanatic]

A 30+ year old running back, with brand name recognition and a bad history - screams 'overvalued' to me. I don't see anything compelling about drafting Ricky Williams this year except as a handcuff for the Ronnie owner, and even that could prove too costly if there are other owners in the league that are partying like it's 2003 and have an inflated view of Ricky's value and are willing to poach him a round or two earlier than he should go.

Where is the upside?

He's 31 years old, running behind a sub-par offensive line, no consistent passing threat to keep defenses from stacking the box and playing behind a younger, more talented runner.

I don't even care about his off-field history anymore, it's irrelevant at this point.

Even if Ronnie Brown had a major setback and Ricky were starting the year atop the depth chart, I would still avoid him. Ronnie was exceptional last year because he's an exceptional young running back. Ricky is neither exceptional nor young. And when coupled with the fact that the Dolphins will be trailing early and often in games this year, Ricky seems like a waste of conversation to me.

They had to do something right. Ronnie Brown can't block for himself. RB was leading the league in rushing when he went down...

 

[cstu]

A 30+ year old running back, with brand name recognition and a bad history - screams 'overvalued' to me. I don't see anything compelling about drafting Ricky Williams this year except as a handcuff for the Ronnie owner, and even that could prove too costly if there are other owners in the league that are partying like it's 2003 and have an inflated view of Ricky's value and are willing to poach him a round or two earlier than he should go.Where is the upside?He's 31 years old, running behind a sub-par offensive line, no consistent passing threat to keep defenses from stacking the box and playing behind a younger, more talented runner.I don't even care about his off-field history anymore, it's irrelevant at this point.Even if Ronnie Brown had a major setback and Ricky were starting the year atop the depth chart, I would still avoid him. Ronnie was exceptional last year because he's an exceptional young running back. Ricky is neither exceptional nor young. And when coupled with the fact that the Dolphins will be trailing early and often in games this year, Ricky seems like a waste of conversation to me.

The upside is that they have no reason not to run him into the ground until Brown is healthy. I doubt he'll perform like he used to but I won't be surprised to see him get a ton of carries this year.

 

[grouse]

A 30+ year old running back, with brand name recognition and a bad history - screams 'overvalued' to me. I don't see anything compelling about drafting Ricky Williams this year except as a handcuff for the Ronnie owner, and even that could prove too costly if there are other owners in the league that are partying like it's 2003 and have an inflated view of Ricky's value and are willing to poach him a round or two earlier than he should go.

Where is the upside?

He's 31 years old, running behind a sub-par offensive line, no consistent passing threat to keep defenses from stacking the box and playing behind a younger, more talented runner.

I don't even care about his off-field history anymore, it's irrelevant at this point.

Even if Ronnie Brown had a major setback and Ricky were starting the year atop the depth chart, I would still avoid him. Ronnie was exceptional last year because he's an exceptional young running back. Ricky is neither exceptional nor young. And when coupled with the fact that the Dolphins will be trailing early and often in games this year, Ricky seems like a waste of conversation to me.

They had to do something right. Ronnie Brown can't block for himself. RB was leading the league in rushing when he went down...

I have to respectfully disagree with you on this.Good offensive lines make average (or below) running backs better.

Good running backs make average (or below) offensive lines better.

Which do you really think was the case last year when Ronnie was healthy? Are you really attributing Ronnie's success to his offensive line?

Take a closer look at Ronnie's 4 100-yard games that he posted before getting hurt and the answer is undeniable.

Ronnie Brown's 100-yard games came against the Jets, Raiders, Texans and Browns - all 4 defenses were among the worst in the NFL against the run.

Now take into account that only 2 OL starters from last season are returning this year.

Still think the Dolphins offensive line is better than average?

 

[TheFanatic]

A 30+ year old running back, with brand name recognition and a bad history - screams 'overvalued' to me. I don't see anything compelling about drafting Ricky Williams this year except as a handcuff for the Ronnie owner, and even that could prove too costly if there are other owners in the league that are partying like it's 2003 and have an inflated view of Ricky's value and are willing to poach him a round or two earlier than he should go.

Where is the upside?

He's 31 years old, running behind a sub-par offensive line, no consistent passing threat to keep defenses from stacking the box and playing behind a younger, more talented runner.

I don't even care about his off-field history anymore, it's irrelevant at this point.

Even if Ronnie Brown had a major setback and Ricky were starting the year atop the depth chart, I would still avoid him. Ronnie was exceptional last year because he's an exceptional young running back. Ricky is neither exceptional nor young. And when coupled with the fact that the Dolphins will be trailing early and often in games this year, Ricky seems like a waste of conversation to me.

They had to do something right. Ronnie Brown can't block for himself. RB was leading the league in rushing when he went down...

I have to respectfully disagree with you on this.Good offensive lines make average (or below) running backs better.

Good running backs make average (or below) offensive lines better.

Which do you really think was the case last year when Ronnie was healthy? Are you really attributing Ronnie's success to his offensive line?

Take a closer look at Ronnie's 4 100-yard games that he posted before getting hurt and the answer is undeniable.

Ronnie Brown's 100-yard games came against the Jets, Raiders, Texans and Browns - all 4 defenses were among the worst in the NFL against the run.

Now take into account that only 2 OL starters from last season are returning this year.

Still think the Dolphins offensive line is better than average?

Guys don't run in a vacuum. The line did something right. I've said it a million times, the game is won and lost at the line of scrimmage. I'm not saying they are the Chiefs O-line from a few years ago or the Rams in 1999, but they were doing something right. Maybe a combo of a decent O-Line and an above average RB feasting on sub par run D's. Maybe RB made he line look better than it was, but this is a team game and outside of the QB, it's hard for one player to have that much impact on a game...

 

[Wildman]

I have to respectfully disagree with you on this.

Good offensive lines make average (or below) running backs better.

Good running backs make average (or below) offensive lines better.

In other words:

If I don't like the running back, the offensive line was good.

If I like the running back, the offensive line gets no credit.



The difference in average and below average could be as small as a hair or as wide as a canyon. Although I'm just having fun picking on the statement, I am seriously interested in knowing how you rate a good or bad offensive line.

 

[grouse]

I have to respectfully disagree with you on this.Good offensive lines make average (or below) running backs better.Good running backs make average (or below) offensive lines better.

In other words:If I don't like the running back, the offensive line was good. If I like the running back, the offensive line gets no credit. The difference in average and below average could be as small as a hair or as wide as a canyon. Although I'm just having fun picking on the statement, I am seriously interested in knowing how you rate a good or bad offensive line.

I think you are getting a little too granular on this.My overall point was that Ronnie Brown's success last year came against the worst run defenses in the NFL and was likely more the by-product of Ronnie Brown being an exceptional young running back more so than running behind a prolific offensive line.If you or TheFanatic would like to advocate for the Miami Dolphins offensive line, go for it. But given that the organization sent 60% of last year's unit packing (out of the starting unit), one has to assume they weren't that good. This year, they certainly upped the talent level by selecting Long and bringing in Smiley - but as I'm sure you know, it takes time for offensive lines to play well together and gel as a unit.The Dolphins line is in full-on rebuild mode. Again, if you want to dispute that and tell me that the Dolphins line will be anywhere near the top-half of the league, by all means do so, but do realize that you are likely in the minority. I'd say Miami's line is safely in the bottom-third of the league.So I come back to my original point. Ricky is a 31 year old running back, running behind a sub-par line, on an offense that will be playing from behind consistently throughout the season and 'Ricky Williams' (the name) still carries brand value that some owners will overpay for. So again, there is no upside in Ricky Williams unless you are literally talking about taking him with the last pick in your draft.

 

[Wildman]

I have to respectfully disagree with you on this.Good offensive lines make average (or below) running backs better.Good running backs make average (or below) offensive lines better.

In other words:If I don't like the running back, the offensive line was good. If I like the running back, the offensive line gets no credit. The difference in average and below average could be as small as a hair or as wide as a canyon. Although I'm just having fun picking on the statement, I am seriously interested in knowing how you rate a good or bad offensive line.

I think you are getting a little too granular on this.My overall point was that Ronnie Brown's success last year came against the worst run defenses in the NFL and was likely more the by-product of Ronnie Brown being an exceptional young running back more so than running behind a prolific offensive line.If you or TheFanatic would like to advocate for the Miami Dolphins offensive line, go for it. But given that the organization sent 60% of last year's unit packing (out of the starting unit), one has to assume they weren't that good. This year, they certainly upped the talent level by selecting Long and bringing in Smiley - but as I'm sure you know, it takes time for offensive lines to play well together and gel as a unit.The Dolphins line is in full-on rebuild mode. Again, if you want to dispute that and tell me that the Dolphins line will be anywhere near the top-half of the league, by all means do so, but do realize that you are likely in the minority. I'd say Miami's line is safely in the bottom-third of the league.So I come back to my original point. Ricky is a 31 year old running back, running behind a sub-par line, on an offense that will be playing from behind consistently throughout the season and 'Ricky Williams' (the name) still carries brand value that some owners will overpay for. So again, there is no upside in Ricky Williams unless you are literally talking about taking him with the last pick in your draft.

Nah, just being a smart a## because the two phrases were like softballs lofted this way. Of course Miami's o-line wasn't all that good. Based on where Williams has been available for the past month in many drafts, he is a value because that's exactly where you can get him.

 

[zoonation]

I have to respectfully disagree with you on this.

Good offensive lines make average (or below) running backs better.

Good running backs make average (or below) offensive lines better.

In other words:If I don't like the running back, the offensive line was good.

If I like the running back, the offensive line gets no credit.



The difference in average and below average could be as small as a hair or as wide as a canyon. Although I'm just having fun picking on the statement, I am seriously interested in knowing how you rate a good or bad offensive line.

I think you are getting a little too granular on this.My overall point was that Ronnie Brown's success last year came against the worst run defenses in the NFL and was likely more the by-product of Ronnie Brown being an exceptional young running back more so than running behind a prolific offensive line.

If you or TheFanatic would like to advocate for the Miami Dolphins offensive line, go for it. But given that the organization sent 60% of last year's unit packing (out of the starting unit), one has to assume they weren't that good. This year, they certainly upped the talent level by selecting Long and bringing in Smiley - but as I'm sure you know, it takes time for offensive lines to play well together and gel as a unit.

The Dolphins line is in full-on rebuild mode. Again, if you want to dispute that and tell me that the Dolphins line will be anywhere near the top-half of the league, by all means do so, but do realize that you are likely in the minority. I'd say Miami's line is safely in the bottom-third of the league.

So I come back to my original point. Ricky is a 31 year old running back, running behind a sub-par line, on an offense that will be playing from behind consistently throughout the season and 'Ricky Williams' (the name) still carries brand value that some owners will overpay for. So again, there is no upside in Ricky Williams unless you are literally talking about taking him with the last pick in your draft.

:unsubscribe:

 

[Joe Bryant]

Oh I definitely believe he's working hard. He's proven to be flaky and he might not be there next month. But when he's there, he's a solid team mate and works hard. I like him.

J

 

[twr]

traded the 1.4 for ronnie brown. holla

 

[az_prof]

Few like taking a chance on being foolish by saying they like someone to turn their life around and take things up a notch. It makes that person look naive. I don't mind taking that chance on Williams. Having brains, ability, and work ethic is nothing that was ever questioned of him. Having confidence, self-esteem, and a stable set of life skills has been his downfall.

The big question is the obvious, can he do it at 31-years of age like he did in his early to mid twenties?

For a year, maybe two? I think so.

Parcells and his henchmen may be opportunists, but they have a low tolerance for guys who aren't good football players and that also means those days between games as well as Sundays and Mondays.

Why wouldn't they run the guy into the ground? If he can stay healthy, I think the give D's a heavy dose of Ricky. And when Brown is back, Ricky could spell brown who hasn't carried the full load for 16 games. Ronnie may have to be in a Barber/Jones like committee to be productive and stay on the field...

Last year they ran him into the ground and it took what? One game.Regarding Brown's return:

Dolphins | Brown on pace for training camp? Published Sat Jun 7 2:53:00 p.m. ET 2008

(KFFL) Updating previous reports, Craig Barnes, of the Sun-Sentinel, reports Miami Dolphins RB Ronnie Brown (knee) seems to be on track for a full return by the start of training camp.

 

[Ditkaless Wonders]

Didn't he more or less fail in Canada, two years ago, before injury? Are we to think he wasn't trying in Canada? If so, that is the second time he quit on his team. If he was trying and he sucked against that competition I see no reason to believe he will perform well two years later, after injury, in the NFL.

 

[Sammy Traveller]

Didn't he more or less fail in Canada, two years ago, before injury? Are we to think he wasn't trying in Canada? If so, that is the second time he quit on his team. If he was trying and he sucked against that competition I see no reason to believe he will perform well two years later, after injury, in the NFL.

agreed. ricky won't last. if he needs to find the $$ to pay back the dolphins, he should go into the WWF.

 

[gregjcross]

The real question is, when will Brown be healthy? He didn't get the surgery till something like week 8 last year. Most guys are out a full year after that. If that's the case, Ricky could be a real asset for the first few games and even the first couple of games Brown is back as I don't see them rushing Brown back to 20 carries his first game back.

Ricky is obviously going to get lots of work before the Week 4 bye if he stays the course. Brown is recovering quickly (compare him to Kenny Irons who cannot even practice) but if there is knee swelling during training camp, it will tell the real story. IF Brown's knee is swelling and being iced, that is the sign there is a ways to go with healing and Week 9 is more likely and paired with a lost fantasy season\.but if Brown has a smooth camp and gets worked in during weeks 1-3, I would expect they want him to take over as the healthy franchise back. The Dallas staff plays a huge wildcard in this. And, there is no guaranteer WIlliams will stay healthy either.

 

[bcr8f]

Didn't he more or less fail in Canada, two years ago, before injury? Are we to think he wasn't trying in Canada? If so, that is the second time he quit on his team. If he was trying and he sucked against that competition I see no reason to believe he will perform well two years later, after injury, in the NFL.

Not unless 4.7 YPC is failure. It was you Ricky haters saying he had 2 YPC when in reality he had 4.7 before injury. At least tell the truth.How may seasons has Ronnie Brown stayed healthy. This will be a true RBBC until someone gets hurt.

 

[Hairy Snowman]

I like Ricky and his chances for success this year.

IMO The Dolphins may be shaping up to be the most improved team overall in the nfl. Not the superbowl, but maybe the playoffs.

IMO Ricky and Ronnie are better fits for the Parcells system than Jones and Barber ever could be. Parcells likes to be able to take bread and butter yards. He likes predictable. Ronnie Brown put up numbers last year DESPITE his offensive line. I can't tell you how many times he got hit behind the line of scrimmage last year and then went on to make positive yards. And Ricky Williams has had the load on him ever since he came into the league. He has been the big show almost every season he has played. These two RB running styles grind yards on their own consistently. I don't think that will change. These two RBs are a natural fit for the Parcells system, especially in the division. I expect good things from both over the 2008-2009 season.

 

[Craig_MiamiFL]

Obviously some of you have never followed the CFL. It's a passing league. Other than having work, it was a terrible fit for Ricky.

It will be RBBC in Miami this year if both are healthy & on the team Week 1. The sooner you realize it, the better off you'll be. The only way you see one of the two receiving the lion's share of carries is if one of them are hurt.

If you're taking Ronnie Brown in the 2nd in a dynasty league, you're looking at 2009 before you're going to see him paying every week dividends. He did great 4 games blah blah blah. Fact is he can't stay healthy over 16 games and the best way for the DOLPHINS to have the best running game (your little fantasy squad aside) is to utilize both and keep both healthy as possible for 16 games.

----------------------

Whether they're better than Barber/Jones, who knows, but I do agree with the post above. They'll be improved (probably more 7-9/8-8).

 

[gregjcross]

Obviously some of you have never followed the CFL. It's a passing league. Other than having work, it was a terrible fit for Ricky.It will be RBBC in Miami this year if both are healthy & on the team Week 1. The sooner you realize it, the better off you'll be. The only way you see one of the two receiving the lion's share of carries is if one of them are hurt.If you're taking Ronnie Brown in the 2nd in a dynasty league, you're looking at 2009 before you're going to see him paying every week dividends. He did great 4 games blah blah blah. Fact is he can't stay healthy over 16 games and the best way for the DOLPHINS to have the best running game (your little fantasy squad aside) is to utilize both and keep both healthy as possible for 16 games.----------------------Whether they're better than Barber/Jones, who knows, but I do agree with the post above. They'll be improved (probably more 7-9/8-8).

It is likely that one will be hurt, we just dont know which one.

 

[Wildman]

I think it goes a little something like this:

1. If you believe mental health issues are overblown or that Ricky's mental health issue is a lame excuse he concocted to explain away his behavior then you won't likely believe he's ever capable of succeeding in football.

2. If you own Ronnie Brown and desperately wish Brown performs like the only RB I can think of who came back strong from an ACL tear, Deuce McAllister, then anything optimistic concerning Williams will be greeted with immense skepticism. Unless there's some innovation in ACL surgeries/rehabs that they did on McAllister, and now Brown, then I would be highly skeptical of Brown returning to his pre-injury form in 2008.

3. If you believe that a kid could grow up with this type of mental health issue and have it go undiagnosed during high school and college, because:

A. football was still fun and the pressure didn't come until it increased exponentially with a coach who traded his entire draft to acquire him.

B. Disorders often don't begin to appear until early adulthood.

C. Like most people who have some kind of disorder that goes undiagnosed or soon after diagnosis they begin to self-medicate even heavier than they were once before.

Then it's possible you might accept the probability that William's sudden retirement, repeated struggles with pot, attempt to find himself through alternate routes of healing (yoga) contributed to him not having any success for the past 4-5 seasons when he did perform. The guy has been in denial about his problem because he's been dealing with the fact that the skill he has and loves (playing football) is now coupled with being a public figure on a much larger scale than he did as a start collegian. It's primarily a mental thing, not a physical thing. Ricky Williams has taken a journey that hasn't been easy. He's made it a very public one, too--not necessarily the choice he probably wanted to do, but had little choice. So when I look at his CFL time, I think of a guy who was still in the middle of a confusing time. When I think of last year, I think of 1 game where he got hurt--and stepped on in a way that any back would have probably torn his pec.

What I see is a man who continues to confront an issue few people understand and are skeptical because unless you have experience a mental health issue or know someone who has, it's easy to react in an ignorant away about self-destructive behavior.

That said, do I think Ricky will have a 1500-yard season? No. is it possible? Sure, although I'm not counting on it. Still I do believe if Miami gives him a chance to be the man, he can rush for 1100-1300 yards because his body age as a football player is probably more like a 28 or 29-year-old which is the prime of a starting RBs career.

Am I telling people to draft him like a 1000-yard back? Of course not. But I do enjoy debating those who come up with reasons why he's not capable of being a good player.

 

[bcr8f]

Well said Wildman.

From the Herald Blog

Armando Salguero

MANDATORY minicamp practices over

Pretty uneventful practice today.

I watched rookie Dan Carpenter on kickoffs and he does have a booming leg. He drove all but one of his kicks to the goal line and a couple even went out of the end zone. I will be writing a column about the kicking competition that Bill Parcels basically announced last week in the coming days. A couple of things in there will surprise you as Jay Feel attempts to keep his job.

The three quarterbacks all got first-team snaps today. John Beck had a couple of nice throws, including one in which he basically got the ball over a defensive lineman's helmet as that lineman was grabbing onto him and the rest of the pocket was breaking down.

Ernest Wilford was present for the walk-Thur before the media was allowed in to watch, according to coach Tony Soprano, but was absent for the actual practice because he had a flight to catch.

As to the advancements the team made during the three-day camp:

"I just told the team this at the end of practice, I thought we had an awful lot of competition during this training camp," Soprano said. "We had competition in the red zone, in two-minute situations, on third down. We were able to evaluate some of our bigger people packages and we got a chance to see our blitz-pickups and blitz packages."

So the Dolphins, like FedEx, got a look at a lot of packages this weekend.

The top performers of the weekend IMHO?

1. Ricky Williams. Looks cut, quick and strong. He is the best player on the team right now. It says something when Parcells gives the player a fist-pound after a play, which he did Saturday.

2. Yeremiah Bell. I kidded with him that he looks like Dan Marino out there because he's wearing two ankle braces and two knee braces. He laughed but Sparano called him the "a good quarterback out there," meaning that is the role Bell plays on D. I don't believe he blew an assignment all weekend long.

3. Vonnie Holliday. Let's face it, he is the team best DL right now. He is healthy, he plays smart. And frankly, he looked to be schooling some of the OLinemen most of the weekend.

4. Ernest Wilford. He is the team's best receiver right now. He catches everything, he knows how to run routes and he knows how to separate even though he doesn't have the greatest speed in the world. My prediction is he leads all receivers in catches this year although Ted Ginn is the No. 1 receiver.

5. Joey Porter. I know he was something of a disappointment last year, primarily because his performance didn't match his salary. But was he a bad player? I don't think so. This weekend he spent extra time working with defensive coordinator Paul Pasqualoni on his pass-rush technique. He told me to expect new things from him we haven't seen before. We'll see.

 

[TheFanatic]

Few like taking a chance on being foolish by saying they like someone to turn their life around and take things up a notch. It makes that person look naive. I don't mind taking that chance on Williams. Having brains, ability, and work ethic is nothing that was ever questioned of him. Having confidence, self-esteem, and a stable set of life skills has been his downfall.

The big question is the obvious, can he do it at 31-years of age like he did in his early to mid twenties?

For a year, maybe two? I think so.

Parcells and his henchmen may be opportunists, but they have a low tolerance for guys who aren't good football players and that also means those days between games as well as Sundays and Mondays.

Why wouldn't they run the guy into the ground? If he can stay healthy, I think the give D's a heavy dose of Ricky. And when Brown is back, Ricky could spell brown who hasn't carried the full load for 16 games. Ronnie may have to be in a Barber/Jones like committee to be productive and stay on the field...

Last year they ran him into the ground and it took what? One game.Regarding Brown's return:

Dolphins | Brown on pace for training camp? Published Sat Jun 7 2:53:00 p.m. ET 2008

(KFFL) Updating previous reports, Craig Barnes, of the Sun-Sentinel, reports Miami Dolphins RB Ronnie Brown (knee) seems to be on track for a full return by the start of training camp.

If he were to participate fully in TC, that may be the fasted recovery from a blown knee in history. He didn't have the surgery till week 8 last year. Most guys need at least a year. That would put him at 100% at 9 months. Am I the only one not buying this?

 

[Wildman]

They said the same things about Edge, Jamal Lewis, and every other star back coming back within a year of a torn ACL. The following year it's often the back being quoted as saying they were never 100%.

 

[BuckeyeArt]

Then it's possible you might accept the probability that William's sudden retirement, repeated struggles with pot, attempt to find himself through alternate routes of healing (yoga) contributed to him not having any success for the past 4-5 seasons when he did perform. The guy has been in denial about his problem because he's been dealing with the fact that the skill he has and loves (playing football) is now coupled with being a public figure on a much larger scale than he did as a start collegian. It's primarily a mental thing, not a physical thing. Ricky Williams has taken a journey that hasn't been easy. He's made it a very public one, too--not necessarily the choice he probably wanted to do, but had little choice. So when I look at his CFL time, I think of a guy who was still in the middle of a confusing time. When I think of last year, I think of 1 game where he got hurt--and stepped on in a way that any back would have probably torn his pec. What I see is a man who continues to confront an issue few people understand and are skeptical because unless you have experience a mental health issue or know someone who has, it's easy to react in an ignorant away about self-destructive behavior.

So, what leads you to believe he has conquered his mental health issue? Other than his comments, which have been proven to be unreliable in the past, just what makes anyone think he has changed?He has had 231 carries since 2003. Total. US and Canada. He's had 63 carries since 2005. What makes anyone think he can still return to the form of 2003, when he had 3.5 ypc? Is that really any different than expecting Brown to come back form his ACL injury?

 

[lod01]

Parcells loves Ricky.

http://blogs.sun-sentinel.com/sports_footb...amp-wrap-a.html

During inside run drills Ricky Williams continued to run hard. He's probably been the most impressive player in the four practices I've seen so far. I suspect he's going to have a really good year this season because he appears fast, and has been beating everyone to the outside corner on the sweeps. But then again, this isn't contract work so maybe it's misleading. However, the fact Williams has an extra gear the other backs don't is clear.

At one point Williams was running past Parcells and the warden stuck his hand out. I couldn't figure out if he was trying to slap the ball away or give Ricky a high-five.

http://miamiherald.typepad.com/dolphins_in...saturday-m.html

Ricky Williams continues to impress. On one running play he vaulted a guard and defensive tackle who were on the ground and clogging the hole. Amazing stuff which leads me to think right now, today, he is the best player Miami has on the field.

http://blogs.sun-sentinel.com/sports_footb...amp-wrap-u.html

The Ricky Williams stiff arm. On an inside run during team drills Williams put on the after burner after getting past the front seven and stiff armed an unknown player in the secondary. He kept running for another 20 yards even though the play was stopped and when he finally turned back there was Parcells pointing at him, mimicking his stiff arm, and then giving Ricky the OK sign with his fingers. He did it twice. It's safe to say Ricky Williams is Bill Parcells' favorite player on the roster. SAFE!"

 

[SmoovySmoov]

<hijack>Great avatar. </hijack>

 

[Alias]

Bump is Ricky this year's David Boston sleeper pick from '07?

 

[Alias]

the only relevant news blurb I could find through the blogger:

RONNIE OR RICKY?

Coach Tony Sparano said he has a good feel for what running backs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams can accomplish in games but is figuring out which would be better suited as the starter.

''Who comes into the game warm or who needs to start the game to be warm is kind of an issue,'' Sparano said. ``Last week, Ronnie started the game, we got him touches early in the game, but there's Ricky kind of chomping at the bit to get in, and I wasn't sure how he would enter.''

Sparano said he liked Williams' 'energy' when he relieved Brown.

Sparano compared the running back situation with what the coaching staff faced in Dallas with Marion Barber and Julius Jones.

http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/football...ory/642996.html

 

[j3r3m3y]

. So again, there is no upside in Ricky Williams unless you are literally talking about taking him with the last pick in your draft.

I can understand being down on him, but if you honestly believe his value justifies taking him with the last pick I... I really can't find the words to express how horrible that assessment is.

 

[Wildman]

Then it's possible you might accept the probability that William's sudden retirement, repeated struggles with pot, attempt to find himself through alternate routes of healing (yoga) contributed to him not having any success for the past 4-5 seasons when he did perform. The guy has been in denial about his problem because he's been dealing with the fact that the skill he has and loves (playing football) is now coupled with being a public figure on a much larger scale than he did as a start collegian. It's primarily a mental thing, not a physical thing. Ricky Williams has taken a journey that hasn't been easy. He's made it a very public one, too--not necessarily the choice he probably wanted to do, but had little choice. So when I look at his CFL time, I think of a guy who was still in the middle of a confusing time. When I think of last year, I think of 1 game where he got hurt--and stepped on in a way that any back would have probably torn his pec. What I see is a man who continues to confront an issue few people understand and are skeptical because unless you have experience a mental health issue or know someone who has, it's easy to react in an ignorant away about self-destructive behavior.

So, what leads you to believe he has conquered his mental health issue? Other than his comments, which have been proven to be unreliable in the past, just what makes anyone think he has changed?He has had 231 carries since 2003. Total. US and Canada. He's had 63 carries since 2005. What makes anyone think he can still return to the form of 2003, when he had 3.5 ypc? Is that really any different than expecting Brown to come back form his ACL injury?

Reading comprehension. Sarcasm aside, I don't have proof. I just choose to believe that people can grow up. The reports since last fall were positive and forthright about Williams finally confronting his issues. He was self-medicating with the marijuana and the first time he "came back" after shocking everyone was solely for the money. We've all made mistakes with our ability to judge someone's character, but I happen to believe he's turned the corner based on the numerous articles I've read. You have to look at the frame of reference in an article when it comes to issues like this:a) Ricky's first "retirement" and first "return from retirement" dealt a lot with the embarrassment of failing drug tests. He also was in clear denial about the marijuana use throughout. Re-watch the 60 minutes interview. Lee Steinberg wasn't nearly as effusive about Williams during this first go-round. b) The second return last fall had people far more cautious, but there were admissions of marijuana contributing to his overall problem. Williams also did some media-driven things that he would have never done in the past. c) People see him as weird because he's basically a highly intelligent loner who had a mental health issue that was difficult for him to come to grips with on his own. Put him in a high profile job and the issue is magnified. If he were simply an entry level employee in some 9-5 gig, it probably wouldn't be a big deal. But when you're a Heisman Tophy-winning, first round pick that a HOFer gave away a draft to acquire, that's stressful to a more introverted, introspective person. Fame is a job, it's not the privilege many believe it to be. The way he carries himself and responds to questions has changed over the years. d) Bill Parcells has put up with some people with rough issues - IMO - T.O. and LT. So saying Parcells bought into Ricky isn't that big of a deal. But it is a big deal that reports continually come out that he looks like the best player on the field. You weren't hearing that last time. You can argue that it is because the Dolphins were a better team back then, but I think that's just someone trying to be clever without real depth. There's more to it. He looks better and is playing better. He regained the weight he needed to be the kind of back he was capable of being. That takes commitment, focus, and desire to be good. He didn't play at that weight the last time around. I have taken Williams in multiple leagues. I don't expect him to be my #2 RB, but I think he'll be an excellent bye week option although you can get him as your 4th-5th RB in many drafts right now.

 

[=Smackdown=]

Ronnie wearing a cast on his right carry hand at the end of the game - not broken - sprained thumb.

Those that drafted Ricky late will be quite happy with him to start the season.

 

[bcr8f]

Ronnie wearing a cast on his right carry hand at the end of the game - not broken - sprained thumb.Those that drafted Ricky late will be quite happy with him to start the season.

Thank you.