Ricky Williams wishes he would have been drafted by Cleveland Browns

Former running back Ricky Williams had a rocky career, but he believes he could have been one of the best all-time players if drafted by the Cleveland Browns.

When the Cleveland Browns returned to Cleveland in 1999, they had an opportunity to draft their franchise quarterback in Tim Couch immediately in the 1999 NFL Draft. That is exactly what they did, but it did not go the way they wanted.

Despite being a talented player, Couch was hampered by injuries in his five seasons with the Browns. He helped them make their only playoff appearance since returning to Cleveland in 2002, even though he did not play in the final games of the season.

With the Browns rebuilding and not able to build a strong offensive line, Couch was put in a disadvantageous position. However, in 1999, running back Ricky Williams was hoping he’d be the one to bring the Browns back to prominence, telling Bleacher Report he would have been a Hall of Famer with the Browns.

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Williams wanted to be with a team who had a rich history and tradition. By going to an organization with tradition, Williams said he would have been focused on football and would thrive in an environment where football means everything.

During the early part of his career, Williams was one of the top players in the NFL. In 2002, he led the NFL in rushing with 1,853 yards and 16 touchdowns. He followed up that season with 1,372 yards and nine touchdowns in 2003.

However, despite the stellar start of his career, Williams’ career was derailed as he failed several drug tests due to testing positive for marijuana. He retired from football in 2004 because of his failed drug tests. he returned in 2005, but then was suspended for the entire 2006 season because of another drug test failure.

After the failed drug tests and suspensions, Williams was never the same player. However, he feels that had he been drafted in Cleveland, he would have been able to focus on football and never have the off-field issues.

Because of the lack of an offensive line in the first few seasons in Cleveland, drafting a physical running back could have been the better approach for the Browns. While relying on the run game, the Browns would have had time to build up their offensive line and then find their franchise quarterback.

Williams may have been a great fit in Cleveland, for many reasons. However, the Browns could not pass up the opportunity to draft their franchise quarterback. It may have not worked out for the Browns, but it is hard to say Williams would have the success in Cleveland he believes he would have.