OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP)—The Baltimore Ravens have signed veteran running
back Ricky Williams(notes) to replace Willis McGahee(notes), who they let go days before
training camp.
Williams agreed to a two-year deal, the team announced on Monday.
The former Heisman Trophy played last season with the Miami Dolphins and if
everything goes well with his physical on Tuesday, Williams will work in tandem
with Ray Rice(notes).
“He’s a veteran that brings a lot of leadership,” Rice said. “I’m looking
to learn a lot from him. I’m looking forward to working with him.”
A former Pro Bowler, Williams rushed for a career-high 1,853 yards to lead
the league in 2002.
“He’s an awesome player,” quarterback Joe Flacco(notes) said. “He’s a legit
player.”
Last season, Williams, 34, split time with Ronnie Brown(notes) in Miami and
averaged 4.2 yards per carry. He gained 673 yards and scored two touchdowns.
Williams has rushed for 9,569 career yards and 68 touchdowns, recording 325
receptions for 2,523 yards and eight touchdowns.
“It gives us a proven playmaker, an outstanding runner, an outstanding
receiver and an outstanding pass protector,” offensive coordinator Cam Cameron
said. “He knows this system and he has played extremely well in this system.”
Williams has a history of failed drug tests for marijuana and has been
suspended by the NFL previous. He has also retired in the past only to return to
football.
He has been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, which was
treated successfully with therapy and medication.
“I think those things are way, way, way in the past,” Cameron said. “My
relationship, my experience with him, there is no risk, but we’re all human.
There’s risk with everybody. We all make mistakes. Ricky’s not perfect, but I
know he’s got a great heart and he’s a great football player.”