Ricky Williams
Running Back, Miami Dolphins (Currently playing for Toronto in the CFL)
Ricky Williams was a hyped running back out of the University of Texas. That seems like ages ago, since Williams has been no stranger to headlines since the New Orleans Saints made a bold draft move to acquire the elusive Williams. The Saints orchestrated a three-way trade with the Washington Redskins and the Chicago Bears that involved the Saints' taking Washington's #5 overall pick — and, therefore, Williams — in exchange for all the Saints' remaining 1999 draft picks and their first- and third-rounders in 2000.
Williams had an injury during most of his rookie campaign, but still managed to gain 1,000 yards of rushing while the team had a 3-13 season. Ricky had mixed success in the ensuing years with New Orleans, before getting a fresh start with the Miami Dolphins in early 2002 in a trade that sent the Saints two first round draft picks. Williams career took off in Miami, and the personal troubles that bothered him (such as social anxiety disorder) seemed to be behind him. Williams led the Dolphins back into AFC contenders, before a surprise shocked the city and league: Williams retired from football in 2004. The retirement was preempted by a third failure of NFL drug testing, which was to cause Williams to sit out an entire season anyways, but stepping away from the game at what seemed to be his golden years was just downright bizarre. He let down teammates, fans, and coaches with this move. Williams then went awol and traveled to all parts of the world, doing everything from meditating to smoking more marijuana, and admitting it openly.
Williams returned to Miami with mixed reviews a year later, and had moderate success sharing backfield duties with rookie Ronnie Brown. It seemed Miami was poised for another AFC run in the next season, until it was announced Williams once again violated the leagues substance abuse policy, and was suspended for the 2006 season. Ricky signed with the Toronto Argonauts in the CFL, and is playing there until his future NFL status is decided.
2007 GridironTalk.com -