Miami Dolphins' Ricky Williams 'looking for stability'

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http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/football/pro/dolphins/sfl-flspdolphins02sbsep02,0,2173423.story

Miami Dolphins' Ricky Williams 'looking for stability'

By Omar Kelly
South Florida Sun-Sentinel

September 2, 2008

DAVIE - Ricky Williams made it clear he plans to end his career with the Dolphins, even though his new contract extension only carries him into the 2009 season.

Not only is the 31-year-old tailback fond of the Dolphins' new coaches and front office, but his children are settled into their schools, and Williams is working to finish up his bachelor's degree at Nova Southeastern.

"I'm at a point in my career where I'm looking for some stability," Williams said. "Hopefully every time we get to this point in the season they'll come to me and say, 'We really don't want you to be a free agent, so will you sign another deal?'"

Williams is taking pre-algebra and writing courses to finish up the credits he needs to graduate pre-med. He recently started his night courses and said none of his classmates recognized him. But his math instructor figured out he played football, and asked him how quarterback Chad Pennington has been working out.

"I was like, 'Fine,' and that was the end of it," Williams said. "Math teachers are kind of in their own little world."

By the time he turns 40, Williams hopes to start his next career as an osteopath. He plans to attend school full time once the season is over.

"I think I have a gift for it," Williams said. "I like helping people. I like seeing people feel well, and I know what it's like to be in pain."

Porter takes sides

Joey Porter not only intends to play in Sunday's opener against the Jets, but the starting linebacker is hoping to make his debut at a new — but old — position.

Porter, limited by a sore back during the exhibition season, wants to line up as the outside linebacker atop the left tackle. It would be a return to the side he played during his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

"That's my side. I've been playing on that side my whole career. I'm happy to get back to where I belong at," said Porter, who contributed 65 tackles, 5 1/2 sacks and two interceptions last season, playing primarily on the left side of a 4-3 scheme.

Matt Roth's successful transition from defensive end to strong-side linebacker in the Dolphins' new 3-4 scheme frees up Porter, because Roth can hold his ground against the run on the left side.

Since Roth's move, which coach Tony Sparano said was permanent, Porter has spent most of his practice and game time on the right side when he's been healthy enough to participate.

"I've lined up against the best tackles since I've been playing. We made the adjustment when Jason left," Porter said.

"You put your next-best athlete over there and let him have that job. I welcome it."

Smith on board

The Dolphins signed inside linebacker Tyson Smith to the practice squad.

Smith, an Iowa State product who joins his sixth NFL team since 2005, had been with the Cowboys since January. During the exhibition season Smith, 26, contributed 14 tackles and one interception in four games.

He picked the Dolphins over the Vikings because of his familiarity with the 3-4 scheme.