Green Bay Packers 2019 roster preview: Jamaal Williams

We begin our 2019 Green Bay Packers roster previews with running back Jamaal Williams.

The Green Bay Packers‘ ground game is going to be interesting to watch throughout the summer. How will new head coach Matt LaFleur use his running backs, and how committed will the Packers be to the run game?

Entering his third season with the Green Bay Packers, what role will Jamaal Williams play in this new-look offense?

Let’s first take a look back at his 2018 stats.

2018 stats

Williams played in all 16 games, starting eight. He had 121 carries for 464 yards and three touchdowns. He also caught 27 passes for 210 yards.

2018 review

Williams was inconsistent in 2018 — among his eight starts, Williams had a game with 11 carries for just 27 yards, but also another game with 15 carries for 95 yards and a touchdown.

Aaron Jones might be the most efficient runner on the roster, but Williams is capable of starting when needed, and he offers solid all-around play as a receiver and in pass protection.

Williams’ numbers were similar to his rookie season. While his total rushing yards were down, he had fewer carries, and he actually improved his yards per carry from 3.6 to 3.8.

Overall, it looked like it was going to be a disappointing second season for Williams, but he finished strong once Joe Philbin took over as interim head coach. Perhaps that’s an encouraging sign that a new scheme could help him.

Odds of making roster: 100 percent

Williams will be part of the Packers’ roster this season. While they did add running back Dexter Williams late in the draft, that was to be expected as the team lacked depth at the position. There’s a good chance LaFleur’s offense will feature all three running backs — Jamaal Williams, Jones and rookie Dexter Williams.

What to expect in 2019?

It’s hard to imagine Jones not starting the season as the featured back in LaFleur’s offense, but that’s not to say Williams won’t also have a key role.

Williams excels in pass protection, and he’s also been a reliable pass catcher in his first two seasons. That could lead to a regular role on third down, and his ability in short-yardage situations will also help him get on the field.

The Packers will need all three of their running backs to contribute frequently if they are to improve their rushing numbers and become more balanced offensively.

The fact Green Bay only added one running back in the draft, and as late as the sixth round, is good news for Williams.