If the Broncos were thinking about adding Ricky Williams to their backfield, that notion was dashed Tuesday when the NFL announced it has suspended the Miami Dolphins running back for a year for violating its substance abuse policy.
Williams had appealed the decision, which was made in February after he tested positive for an unnamed substance. He previously was suspended for four games for his third violation of the drug program.
Williams, who retired after the 2004 season, served that suspension last season after returning to the Dolphins. He will be eligible to return to the Dolphins for the 2007 season.
“I’m disappointed with the decision but I respect it,” Williams, 28, said in a statement. “I’m proud of my association with the National Football League and look forward to returning to the Dolphins in 2007.”
Before his positive test became public, the Broncos had discussions about trading for Williams. The Dolphins were expected to begin shopping him before this weekend’s draft.
Denver is expected to take a running back with one of its seven picks in the first four rounds.
Goodman’s role grows
The Broncos named Jim Goodman the team’s director of player personnel. Goodman has been with the Broncos for nine years and has been the team’s director of college scouting.
He will continue his collegiate scouting responsibilities while becoming involved in all pro personnel aspects. Goodman will work closely with coach Mike Shanahan, general manager Ted Sundquist and assistant GM Rick Smith in player personnel evaluation and acquisition.
Walker update
An NFL source said the Packers and Broncos recently discussed the availability of disgruntled Green Bay wide receiver Javon Walker. There is a chance Walker will be traded by this weekend’s draft, and the Broncos are one of several teams that have expressed interest in Walker, who is recovering from a torn ACL.
The Packers are believed to be asking for multiple draft picks for Walker. Denver and other interested teams, including Philadelphia and San Francisco, are expected to talk with Green Bay as the draft approaches. There is a chance Denver will try to involve wide receiver Ashley Lelie in a deal. Lelie wants to be traded, and his agents and the team are shopping him.
Denver is expected to draft a receiver early, perhaps with its first pick at No. 15, where Ohio State’s Santonio Holmes and Florida’s Chad Jackson could be available.
Bill Williamson can be reached at 303-820-5450 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com.
