DAVIE, Fla. -- Bill Parcells reported to his new job and quickly put aside one theory about what ails the Miami Dolphins.
It turns out they really do practice.
Parcells was on the field for Thursday's workout and a firsthand look at the NFL's last-place team. He signed a four-year contract last week to become executive vice president of football operations of the Dolphins.
"When he walked out, everybody noticed," defensive tackle Vonnie Holliday said. "There was a whisper here and there.
"He didn't say much. He just kind of sat back in the shadows and talked to a few of the coaches. He didn't address the team."
Parcells will likely leave the speeches to his head coach, which for the moment is Cam Cameron. Parcells' first big decision will be whether to retain Cameron and general manager Randy Mueller, and a major roster shakeup is likely.
The Dolphins lost their first 13 games under Cameron, and take a 1-14 record into Sunday's finale against Cincinnati, which will end the worst season in franchise history.
Cameron said he spoke briefly to Parcells during practice.
"I went over and said hello, and he said hello," Cameron said. "One thing he said is, `Hey, I know we've got to get ready for Cincinnati. So just keep doing what you're doing, and there will be time to talk."'
Parcells, 66, addressed the South Florida media for the first time later Thursday. It gave him a chance to explain why he decided to take on the challenge of reviving a team that will sit out the playoffs for the sixth consecutive year, extending a franchise record.
As a coach, Parcells took over losing teams with the Giants, Patriots, Jets and Cowboys and transformed them into winners. He won five division titles in 19 seasons and led the Giants to two Super Bowl championships.
Parcells needed only one practice to make an impact in Miami, linebacker Joey Porter said.
"Guys were nervous out there," Porter said. "They got to running around a little faster. The coaches got to coaching a little louder. You definitely knew he was out there. ...
"He's known for building programs to win, and we're just all waiting to see. This year is over. We've got one game to finish out, and then we'll wait for him to do his magic."
Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press
