"Keep doing what you do," Ginn quoted the message as saying.
Actually, the Dolphins expect more from Ginn than what he has done so far. That's why they judged Chambers expendable and traded him Tuesday to San Diego for a second-round draft choice in 2008.
The departure of the Dolphins' leading receiver ensures more playing time for Ginn, their top pick in this year's draft. He made only three receptions in the first six games but figures to become busier starting Sunday against unbeaten New England.
"I'm ready, man," Ginn said. "I run all day. I never stop. It's going to be fine."
While the trade created an opportunity for Ginn, it also meant the departure of his mentor. Both are natives of Cleveland, and Ginn's father coached Chambers for two years in high school.
Practice seemed strange this week without Chambers, Ginn said Thursday.
"Chris was helping me with everything," Ginn said. "One day he's here, the next day he's gone. He's still the guy I always look up to, no matter whether he's here or not."
Ginn's failure to make much of an impact so far has been one of the many disappointments for the Dolphins, who have matched the worst start in franchise history at 0-6. He played little in the first few games but will now become part of a three-man rotation at receiver with Derek Hagan and veteran Marty Booker.
Hagan, a third-round draft pick in 2006, has six catches in limited duty and is still trying to shake a reputation for dropping passes.
"It's time to step up," he said.
The trade showed the Dolphins are already thinking beyond this season. Recent improvement by the offense can continue despite the departure of Chambers, coach Cam Cameron said.
"If we're not sitting here with Ted Ginn and Derek Hagan, we can't make the move," Cameron said. "Now it's just a matter of playing the game to see if they can make the same plays they make in practice."
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