Sunday, October 10, 2004

Will Ricky Be Back? Ricky Williams has asked the NFL for a ruling on his situation so that he can return to the NFL. He has volunteered that he would pay back the money he owes the Dolphins if he could be cleared to play. Questions about this abound. If he does come back, will be suspended for violating the substance abuse policy? The answer almost certainly is yes. One scenario has him missing the rest of this season and returning next year. If he does return, what team will he play for? It is becoming increasingly clear that the Dolphins may not want him, especially because of the way he quit on the team by retiring so soon before training camp. And, why the sudden change of heart? Though he denies it, the most plausible response is the recent order that Williams pay the Dolphins $8.6 million, an amount of money he clearly does not have.



Hanging over all of this is Williams's potential bankruptcy, which could make him a free agent. As discussed in this earlier post, this seems to be a viable strategy under Florida law, but the NFL will do almost anything to prevent it, as it could set a dangerous precedent. Here is more from the Boston Globe.



What will happen? Williams will probably gain his eligibility this season, but not play until next. And it won't be for the Dolphins.

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