Ricky's Return

Ricky Williams made his second comeback last night for the Dolphins on Monday night football. The results weren't stellar, but he caused the usual commotion that has followed him since draft day. Williams was taken out in the second quarter after someone decided to stomp on his shoulder before recovering his fumble.

Williams is commonly referred to as one of the dumbest players to play football because of his statements which are usually taken out of context. More than anything, he is guilty of speaking an open mind and being unorthodox for a football player.

On draft day, Ditka traded half his team to draft Williams. Williams was blamed for this when he didn't perform superbly, while Ditka got off the hook as he usually does. Then came Williams refusal to speak to the media because of an anxiety disorder. Again, Williams was portrayed as aloof and not a team player when in fact he had a problem that wasn't addressed properly.

Then came the infamous "marijuana" statement that did him in with the league. Admitting that he liked to smoke weed and that his priority in life wasn't football, Williams was done for. You can do almost anything in this league except, maybe killing a few dogs, but you certainly can't show anything but 100% loyalty to your team and feel "blessed" to play in the NFL. Admitting that you like to party or that you are like to indulge is a sin and leaves you branded.

Shawn Merriman tests positive for steroids, which clearly allow his elite play, and it is dusted under the rug. He gets a 4 gm suspension and no more talk. Merriman is what is wrong with the game, i.e. cheating. The league rewards cheaters because it enhances the violence and speed of the game.

Williams violation of the substance abuse policy resulted in frequent testing which he failed and was repeatedly suspended with subsequently harsher punishments. Merriman is still only randomly tested because he tested positive for performance enhancers- the hypocrisy!

When Williams plays and entire season, he is incredible! The unique combo of speed and power. When asked about steroids during his first hiatus, he laughed and said, " i don't need them". He is clearly overweight and will need time to get in shape. Lets hope the pathetic Dolphins recognize the talent they have and treat him like the special project he is. Dennis Rodman is a perfect example. He had great difficulty fitting in with the discipline of the Spurs, but when Phil let him do what he wanted, he thrived on the court.

Lee Steinberg is now Williams agent and will focus him. He still has time to achieve great numbers in the NFL. Williams has always needed a good p.r. person to keep him on page. But he has usually refused and has certainly paid the price.