"Don't throw away those Ronnie Brown jerseys just yet.

Two weeks after the Dolphins selected running back Daniel Thomas with a second-round pick during the NFL Draft, Brown said he could still see himself playing a very beneficial role in Thomas' development if Miami wants him back.

"I'm open to that," Brown told The Miami Herald, reached on his cellphone. "I think [Thomas] said he has some work to do as far as learning the running back position. It's going to be tougher for him because of this lockout.

"He's going to have a lot of things to pick up fast. It takes a lot more than just athletic ability to be successful and make this transition."

Brown cited his relationship with Ricky Williams as proof that it's possible to have a cohesive backfield even when there's two potentially marquee running backs in the mix. Williams started mentoring Brown, then a rookie, in 2005.

"With Ricky and me, we had this situation where we grew close to each other — he was in my wedding," said Brown, who will become a free agent after the lockout is lifted. "As long as everybody's goal is the same — to win football games — I think everything will work out."

Of course, the decision to bring Brown back on board will also require the team's desire to do so. It's worth noting: After the draft, a team source said the Dolphins have not shut the door on a return by Brown or Williams, if it's for the right price."