According to multiple reports, the Ravens signed free agent running back Ricky Williams to a two-year contract on Monday. The deal, which is contingent on Williams passing a physical, is reportedly worth $2.5 million and includes escalators that could increase the total amount to $4 million.
The 34-year-old Williams, who spent the majority of his career in Miami, was not going to be brought back by the Dolphins after they drafted Daniel Thomas and traded for Reggie Bush this offseason.
In Baltimore, Williams will serve as the direct backup to Ray Rice and help fill a position of need. The Ravens watched two of their ‘backs — Willis McGahee and Le’Ron McClain — defect to the AFC West, inking deals with the Broncos and Chiefs, respectively.
Williams may be well past his prime, but proved in recent years that he’s still effective when toting the rock. After Ronnie Brown suffered a season-ending injury in 2009, Williams stepped in and did an admirable job for the ‘Fins, finishing the year with 1,121 yards and 13 total touchdowns. Last season, in more of a timeshare role, he finished 673 yards and two rushing scores.
The Ravens won’t ask him to carry the ball 200+ times — as he did in ’09 — with Rice entrenched as the feature back, but does provide solid insurance in case of injury. This was one of the better landing spots that Williams could’ve hoped for.
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