Kreutz still weighing offer from Dolphins

Advertiser News Services

MIAMI — Miami is playing the waiting game with Ricky Williams and Olin Kreutz.

A decision from New Orleans about whether to deal Williams to the Dolphins or Cleveland is expected today. The teams have been discussing a trade since January.

The Dolphins also will have to wait for unrestricted free agent center Olin Kreutz to make a decision. Kreutz flew home to Hawai'i yesterday following a two-day visit with the Dolphins. His agent, Mark Bartelstein, said the former St. Louis School star will likely decide today whether to accept a free-agent offer from Miami or re-sign with the Chicago Bears.

Kreutz was wined and dined by members of the Dolphins staff and players, including offensive linemen Brent Smith and Mark Dixon and quarterback Jay Fiedler, on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Despite the full-court press, the Dolphins allowed Kreutz to leave town without signing on the dotted line.

The Dolphins have put just about everything they can on the table for Williams and Kreutz.

"Our offers are about as sweet as they can be," said senior vice president Rick Spielman, who confirmed Miami has offered a deal for Williams that could net the Saints two first-round picks.

Kreutz, a 24-year-old two-time Pro Bowl player with Chicago who got married Saturday, appeared relaxed as he weighed offers from the Bears and Dolphins.

The decision is difficult because of his loyalty to Chicago and admiration for Spielman and coach Dave Wannstedt, who were with the Bears in 1998 when Kreutz was drafted.

"It's a lot more difficult than I can explain," he said.

Chicago has offered a six-year deal worth approximately $22.5 million. The Dolphins have offered $25 million over six years. Besides the $2.5 million difference, Illinois has a 3 percent state income tax, while Florida has no income tax.