Williams discusses his regrets

Former Miami Dolphins running back Ricky Williams said he misses football but would only play one more season if he returns to the NFL.

In an interview that will appear in Esquire early next month, Williams also said he regrets not talking with Miami coach Dave Wannstedt before he abruptly retired before the season.

“I should have been man enough to have a conversation with Dave before all this happened,” Williams said. “But I didn’t. I got scared, and I just told him I was retiring. It just came out.”

Earlier this week, Williams’ agent, Leigh Steinberg, said his client had asked the NFL how soon he could return to play. The Dolphins are 0-4 without the 2002 rushing champion.

Williams has acknowledged repeated violations of the NFL drug program. The Dolphins say their understanding is he must serve a suspension for the rest of this season if he tries to return. The NFL declined to comment.

By returning to the Dolphins, Williams could avoid paying $8.6 million for breach of contract.

When reached by the magazine, Williams was at a retreat near Brisbane, Australia, before his return to Los Angeles last week. According to Esquire, he was living in a $7-a-day campsite and had lost 20 pounds on a vegetarian diet.

“Williams’ problems go beyond his battles with the NFL, as he is facing a paternity suit in a Broward County (Fla.) court.

A woman is asking the court to award child support, including medical and dental insurance, and other expenses, for a 14-month-old boy.

Vanderjagt questionable

With kicker Mike Vanderjagt questionable because of a hamstring injury, the Indianapolis Colts signed former New York Giants kicker Matt Bryant on Friday.

Vanderjagt, who injured his right hamstring Sunday against Jacksonville, did not kick Friday, but indicated he still hopes to play Sunday against Oakland. He plans to kick today to test his leg.

“The Colts have a bye week after the Oakland game, which would give Vanderjagt a two-week window to recover and be ready to play Oct. 24 against Jacksonville.

To make roster room for Bryant, the Colts waived defensive tackle Keith Wright.