Packers: Jamaal Williams’ receiving ability important in new offense

Jamaal Williams can play an important role in the passing game this season.

Aaron Jones could be set to lead the Green Bay Packers‘ backfield in 2019, and for good reason. He’s an explosive, exciting running back who makes it look easy as he’s picking up first downs.

But Jamaal Williams will also have an important role to play in Matt LaFleur’s offense. Between the tackles, yes, but also as a receiver.

As Wes Hodkiewicz of Packers.com noted earlier this month, we can expect to see the running backs be “involved in the passing game”, and that will suit Williams.

The best pass protector of the Packers’ running backs, Williams could play more snaps in passing situations this year.

But he won’t just be on the field to block when Aaron Rodgers drops back to pass. Williams has proven he can be an effective receiver in his first two seasons, catching 52 passes for 472 yards and two touchdowns. He could finish with more receiving yards and touchdowns than that this year alone.

Back in his rookie season, Williams almost helped the Packers upset the Pittsburgh Steelers on the road while Rodgers was out with a broken collarbone. Williams had 66 rushing yards and a touchdown, but he also added 69 receiving yards and another touchdown.

In that game, Williams caught a screen pass and turned it into a 54-yard touchdown. We could see more of that in LaFleur’s offense.

Davante Adams is the Packers’ best receiver and will often be covered by each team’s number one cornerback, but if LaFleur can get big plays from the other wide receivers and running backs in the passing game, the offense will be difficult to defend against.

All three running backs should get an expanded role in the passing game, and Jamaal Williams could have a lot of success catching passes in LaFleur’s offense.