43 NFL players who spent time in other leagues

Arena, the USFL, CFL and other leagues have been the path to the NFL for some players.

Ricky Williams

 Jed Jacobsohn /Allsport

Ricky Williams played in the CFL while under suspension from the NFL. In his first season with the Dolphins, Williams led the league in rushing and was named All-Pro and Pro Bowl MVP. After failing a third drug test, he retired but returned in 2005. After failing a fourth drug test, he was suspended for the entire 2006 season. In 2006, the Toronto Argonauts signed Williams under the agreement with Miami that he would return to the Dolphins in 2007. Williams played well for the most part with 526 yards and two touchdowns but missed seven games with a broken arm