D.J. Williams returns from two suspensions, reports for duty

In one way, D.J. Williams is lucky. He didn't lose his job for failing a performance-enhancement drug test and receiving an alcohol-related driving conviction in the past year.

Then again in another way, Williams received a harsher punishment than most civilians because he is an elite professional athlete.

"I did the crime, got to do the time," Williams said Monday in front of his Broncos locker. "But it's over with now and hopefully I can help my team continue to keep winning."

A Broncos starting linebacker since the team selected him in the first round of the 2004 draft, Williams was suspended through the first nine games this season. The Broncos are 6-3 having won their last four.

Williams, 30, missed the first six games for failing the league's performance-enhancement drug test that was administered in the weeks following the 2011 lockout. He then received a second suspension for three games after he was convicted by a Denver jury on Aug. 15 on a charge of driving while ability impaired.

Williams was reinstated Monday and is expected to be formally added to the Broncos' 53-man roster in the next day or two.

"During the whole time I learned a lot about myself, my true character," Williams said. "(During the) 2 ½ months I was really by myself. Alone. Working out. Had to be dedicated and stay concentrated."

During his six-week suspension, Williams worked out at the University of Miami, his alma mater. He was able to work out at the Broncos' facility during his three-week suspension.

When his lost salary, restructured contract and bonus payback are counted up, Williams will have lost not only the first nine games of the Broncos' season, but also close to $4 million.

"I'd rather have the money in my pocket than to be rested," Williams said. "But the season is a long grind and the positive thing about it is my body is rested compared to previous years."

Do not expect Williams to immediately return as a starting linebacker. As a condition for his return, he agreed to a reduction in salary for the remainder of the season. He figures to spend the first week or two getting back in game shape. It's unclear whether he will regain his starting job with weakside linebacker Wesley Woodyard and middle linebacker Keith Brooking playing well.

"There will be some rust but football is a great sport to come back to because when in doubt just hit somebody," Williams said. "I would like to jump out there Day One but you've got to earn the respect of your teammates and earn your spot back. I'll just be patient and wait."


(denverpost.com)