The Vikings remained one of the league's most active teams in free agency on Thursday evening, reaching contract agreement with unrestricted veteran Moe Williams, a six-year tailback familiar to the Minnesota organization.

Williams, 27, spent the first five seasons of his career with the Vikings before moving to the Baltimore Ravens for the 2001 season. His return to the Twin Cities adds depth and much needed experience to a youthful Vikings tailback corps and also bolsters the club's special teams units.

Contract details were not yet available, but it is believed that Williams will sign a one-year deal for $650,000. He would count just $450,000 against the Minnesota salary cap for 2002 because of a new league rule governing veterans who sign minimum deals.

Regarded primarily as a kickoff return specialist and solid coverage player on kicking units, Williams proved himself a capable No. 3 tailaback with the Ravens in 2001. He played in 15 games and started two contests, and posted career bests in rushing attempts (65) and rushing yards (291).

He likely won't challenge for the starting job in Minnesota, but provides an insurance policy if youngsters Doug Chapman or Michael Bennett falter. For the second summer in a row, the two will vie for the starting job. Bennett was the team's first-round choice last year and has demonstrated marked improvement in minicamps.

A former University of Kentucky standout, Williams was the Vikings' third-round pick in the 1996 draft. He has never quite lived up to that draft status but remains a steady veteran who understands his role with the team.

Williams has appeared in 80 games during his career. He has rushed for 486 yards and two touchdowns on 134 carries. He also has 33 receptions for 331 yards and has run back 38 kickoffs for 861 yards.

Len Pasquarelli is a senior writer for ESPN.com.