Several talented free agents remain available as training camp nears, and that includes a former Green Bay Packers fan favorite.
The Packers might not need help at running back, but former fourth-round pick Jamaal Williams deserves another opportunity in the NFL.
Williams spent four seasons with the Packers, forming an excellent running back combination with Aaron Jones. Beyond his numbers on the field, Williams instantly became loved by the entire fanbase. It hurt to see him leave in free agency after his rookie contract expired, especially as he instantly signed with the division-rival Detroit Lions.
It was in Detroit where Williams showed just how big of an impact he can make. After enjoying a solid debut campaign, rushing 153 times for 601 yards and three touchdowns, Williams took his game to another level a year later.
In 2022, Williams turned 262 carries into 1,066 yards and a league-best 17 touchdowns.
The worst team imaginable could sign former Packers running back Jamaal Williams
Williams undoubtedly deserves an opportunity with a team looking for a complementary running back. Unfortunately for Packers fans, that could come in the NFC North.
Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated predicts the Chicago Bears could show interest in signing Williams if they add more running back depth during training camp.
Bears head coach Ben Johnson was the Lions’ offensive coordinator during Williams’ 17-touchdown season, and he will want to run the football behind Chicago’s new-look offensive line. The Bears have D’Andre Swift, another former Lions running back, along with Roschon Johnson, but they may add competition for the RB3 job this summer.
While it would hurt to see Williams playing for another division rival, he absolutely deserves the opportunity.
Williams only found the end zone twice in two years with the New Orleans Saints, but he is only a couple of seasons removed from his 1,000-yard, 17-touchdown campaign.
The Packers don’t need to add a running back. They have second-year MarShawn Lloyd, Emanuel Wilson, and Chris Brooks providing depth behind Pro Bowler Josh Jacobs, but Williams can help a team needing more running back competition.
He deserves another opportunity, just hopefully with a team outside of the NFC North.
