Jamaal Williams, Detroit Lions
We’re expecting D’Andre Swift to hold the feature spot down but this is a whole new regime for the Lions and there are no guarantees that the roles from 2020 carry over into 2021. If you noticed during the offseason, they lost their two best receivers and so their best playmakers are in the backfield. There’s been a great effort to solidify the offensive line to give Jared Goff time to throw and to finally bring a dependable run game to the Motor City.
Free agent pickup Jamaal Williams is a versatile back who can give the Lions more flexibility out of the backfield. He is a superb blocker in the pass game and his experience playing with Aaron Rodgers means he can do feature back duties. Swift will be drafted higher than Williams, but we wouldn’t be surprised if this coaching staff and front office want to see the guy they brought in to deliver the goods.
In the first preseason game, Williams did not do much on the ground (15 yards on nine carries) but he showed his ability to protect Jared Goff and that might be enough to ensure a significant role.
