Dolphins look to sue Williams

Williams had been with the Miami Dolphins for two years

The Miami Dolphins have filed a lawsuit against former running back Ricky Williams.

The enigmatic star retired abruptly before the start of training camp and owes the team nearly $9m.

Last month, arbitrator Richard Bloch ruled that Williams must repay more than $8.6m in bonus money under the contract that he walked out on.

Williams apparently had penalty clauses inserted into his contract when it was reworked two years ago upon his arrival in Miami.

The clauses enabled the club to recoup incentive money and part of his signing bonus if he did not finish out the remainder of the deal.

The 27-year-old Williams filed his retirement papers with the NFL in August, but has been in contact with the league about a possible return since hearing of the arbitrator's ruling.

However, when and if Williams returns is dependent upon his failed drug tests from reported marijuana use.

The former Heisman Trophy winner has rushed for 6,354 yards and 41 touchdowns in five NFL seasons.

In two years with Miami, Williams had 3,225 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns while also grabbing two receiving TDs.

Williams was first drafted by New Orleans with the fifth overall pick in 1999 and spent three years with the Saints before being traded to the Dolphins.