Ex-Ravens RB Ricky Williams to coach at University of the Incarnate Word

Former Ravens backup running back Ricky Williams is joining the coaching ranks.

Williams has agreed to coach the running backs at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, according to a news release on the Texas liberal arts school's website.

Williams is a former Heisman Trophy winner from Texas who abruptly retired following the 2011 season with the Ravens, ending his NFL career by rushing for 444 yards and two touchdowns as the primary backup to Pro Bowl runner Ray Rice.

Williams, 36, rushed for 10,009 career yards and 66 touchdowns, playing for the New Orleans Saints, Miami Dolphins and Ravens in a career interrupted by occasional suspensions and a brief retirement.

UIW is moving up to the Division I level this year as an independent, joining the Southland Conference in 2014.

"Ricky reached out to me about getting into coaching," University of the Incarnate Word coach Larry Kennan said in a statement.  "We have an opening and he is looking to get into coaching so I think it is a good fit.  His experience will be a big help to our staff and players and I think he will have a positive effect on our recruiting efforts."

Williams' hire isn't official until he goes through the usual human resources hiring process.

"We knew that the move to Division I would increase the talent pool of candidates for staffing positions as they came available," UIW athletic director Mark Papich said. "When Coach Kennan approached me regarding Ricky as a potential addition to our staff, it reinforced what we already believed to be true.  The potential to bring someone with the athletic experience of Ricky Williams to work with our student-athletes will enhance their exposure to elite level football."

awilson@baltsun.com

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