SAN FRANCISCO - Just when the Dolphins thought they were done talking about Ricky Williams, news of the wayward running back's imminent return to the NFL put him back in his former teammates' thoughts Wednesday.
And not all of them were happy to be thinking and talking about whether Ricky will run for the Dolphins again.
Even during a week away from South Florida, the Dolphins couldn't get away from the specter of Williams, who stunned the team with his abrupt retirement before training camp. His departure precipitated Miami's free fall into its first losing season in 16 years, leading to coach Dave Wannstedt's resignation two weeks ago.
Defensive end Jason Taylor was among Williams' harshest critics when the running back walked away. When asked how Williams might be welcomed back to Miami, Taylor essentially bit his tongue.
"I don't know. Everybody is different," Taylor said. "Everybody has different opinions of the situation. If it happens, then we'll deal with it then, but everyone's reaction is going to be different."
Given the Dolphins' dismal season and nonexistent running game, most of the players feel they're in no position to pass judgment on Williams - and what's more, not all of the Dolphins share Taylor's animus.
"As a teammate, I'd welcome him," defensive end David Bowens said. "I'm cool with it. First, he owes an apology. It's about his teammates. (But) I'm always a forgiver. It's something for Rick and the guys upstairs. It's obviously going to be after the season."
Meanwhile, linebacker Zach Thomas is doubtful for their upcoming game against the 49ers after missing practice with a hamstring injury. Quarterback A.J. Feeley, who played through a painful injury to his back and buttocks last week in Seattle, is listed as questionable, but plans to play with the help of pain-blocking injections.
The Dolphins need him desperately. Sage Rosenfels is the backup, and the Dolphins signed veteran Jason Garrett, who had two stints with the Bucs this season.
JAGS' LEFTWICH TO START: After missing the last two games with a knee injury, quarterback Byron Leftwich got the go-ahead from coach Jack Del Rio to make his first start in three weeks when the Jaguars face Minnesota Sunday.
BROWNS TO START HOLCOMB: Former Bucs quarterback Kelly Holcomb will make his first start this season, filling in for injured starter Jeff Garcia.
CHARGERS: Ticket prices next season will go up $8 per game for season-ticket holders and $12 for single-game tickets.
TITANS: Running back Chris Brown is out of a walking boot that protected his left big toe, and he took part in some light drills with trainers.
