The Dolphins march toward an imperfect season just became a bit more intriguing with news that rookie quarterback John Beck will replace Cleo Lemon and that running back Ricky Williams has been reinstated for perhaps the final time in his troubled career.
Miami Herald columnist/blogger Greg Cote wonders what took head coach Cam Cameron so long to make the move. For all practical purposes, the Dolphins season ended about five weeks ago. Cameron's stubborn support of Lemon was baffling and completely misguided.
I've heard coaches talk about not wanting to throw a young quarterback to the wolves, but Beck's old enough (26) to have been in the league for four years.
Loved hearing former Dolphins head coach Jimmy Johnson wonder aloud whether we'd see Beck before he reached retirement age. Now, Cameron can help prepare Beck for one of the most highly anticipated bad games in league history when the Jets come to town Dec. 2.
If Cameron was playing Lemon in a desperate attempt to avoid an 0-16 season, shame on him. If that's the case, he's stunted the (growth?) of the club for completely selfish reasons, not the least of which remaining employeed.
And regarding the return of Williams, I'd be shocked if the Dolphins activate him. But the truth is that leaving him on the sideline is probably the wrong move. If you want to trade him in the offseason, what do you have to lose by showcasing him for other teams? Yes, I realize Jesse Chatman is one of the few bright spots in Miami, but he wouldn't mind sharing a few carries.
Williams' value is at an all-time low right now, so you have nothing to gain by benching him. It's not like Cameron has much credibility left in the tank at this point.
I spoke with John Clayton earlier today, and he seems to think Williams may have made a significant breakthrough in his latest stint in rehab. Well, let's take a look.
At the very least, the Dolphins can now give their fans a couple of reasons to care.
