OK, my turn to weigh in on this,
Ricky Williams,
True he is one suspension away from lifetime ban. I think an argument can also be made that Goodell has him in his sites, to make an example of him.
As I understand it, Ricky's last suspension was not from smoking pot but from an unknown substitance that is supposedly tied to his yoga stuff. Not recreational or performance enhancement related. None the less reling on him is a scary proposition.
His age? Yes it's missleading to compare him to other players in the leauge that have played every season when he has not. It is also unfair to completly discount his age not to mention the wear and tear he took in the CFL. It takes longer to heal up each week as you get older. So I think it's fair to put him somewhere in the middle on physical condition. His mental state is a coinflip...... I think his time off probaly works to his advantage on that matter. More time to grow up and realize what the price of smoking a joint really costs him. All in All, I think Ricky is not going going to return to his days of old, on or off the field. I believe him to be about a 1000yrd back who is going keep a low keel profile.
IMO: Ricky carries the aura of being magical. He creates openings and yardage that dosnt exist. That is the razzle dazzle that makes him a fan favorite.
Ronnie Brown:
This guy I like, but frustrates me to no end. I classify him as a solid back. Puts his head down and rams in the pile. He also I consider to be about a 1000yrd a season back. To say his bad streak of injuries is of no concern would be disingenious. He has nice hands recieving and dosnt fumble, he throws a good block. Ronnie Brown is a bruiser, but he is fragile. I have been on the Kool-Aide drinking homer wagon. I am really at a point now where I am waiting to see him complete a full season without missing time. My concern is; If we hang our hopes on him and we get into the post season, is he going to be there or not? I like Brown and I would not trade him for a 2nd. I might consider it for a first depending on who I thought I could get from it, but not a second. It really is not as clear cut as some imply it is, IMO.
Bottom line for me, I feel good about having them together for a 1-2 punch combo. I think while we are set up for this it's prudent to give Ricky the bulk of the carries and keep Ronnie as a medium duty back.