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Jamaal Williams is officially an unrestricted free agent as the 2023 NFL offseason continues to heat up. His contract with the Detroit Lions expired at the conclusion of the 2022 season, but many around the NFL believed they would sign him to a new deal.
They appear to have moved on from the veteran running back, especially after deciding to sign David Montgomery during the free agency period.
Williams led the entire NFL with 17 rushing touchdowns during the 2022 season, while setting a Lions franchise record. He's one of the best short-yardage and goalline backs in the league, as well as an excellent pass-catcher.
His skillset will prove useful to whichever team decides to sign him as a free agent ahead of the 2023 NFL season.
Here are three landing spots that make the most sense for Jamaal Williams.
#1 - Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills frequently use Josh Allen as their rusher in short-yardage situations. While he's a unique weapon in doing so, it would be wise to lighten his load and limit how many hits their franchise quarterback consistently takes during games.
Devin Singletary and James Cook haven't been as reliable in these situations, but this is where Jamaal Williams could come in.
In addition to taking over as the bruiser in the rushing game, Williams can also serve as another pass-catcher in the Bills' offense. They are one of the most pass-heavy teams in the entire NFL, so this is an ideal fit for the veteran running back.
#2 - Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys are expected to release Ezekiel Elliott during the 2023 NFL off-season.
While they recently placed their franchise tag on Tony Pollard, they are likely to be in the market to acquire another running back. Jamaal Williams makes a ton of sense as his style is similar to Zeke's role during the 2022 NFL season.
The Cowboys were at their best when Elliott handled the rushing load between the tackles, while Pollard was used for more of the explosive plays. This isn't too dissimilar to the way the Lions split their work between Jamaal Williams and D'Andre Swift.
The Cowboys could sign Williams as a cheaper replacement with a relatively similar style based on recent usage.
#3 - Chicago Bears
David Montgomery and Jamaal Williams entered the 2023 NFL offseason in similar situations. Each of their contracts expired at the conclusion of the 2022 NFL season, but most around the NFL expected their former teams to sign them to a new contract.
Montgomery signed with the Detroit Lions and now Williams is a candidate to sign with the Chicago Bears.
The swap of former teams to new teams makes sense for both sides. The Bears currently lack a reliable leading back as Khalil Herbert is relatively unproven.
Jamaal Williams will likely receive a generous workload in Chicago while taking some of the pressure off Justin Fields. The young quarterback led the team in rushing yards during the 2022 NFL season.
