The Detroit Lions could use some help for their backfield right now. Jahmyr Gibbs is tied with Kenneth Walker III for the most touches in the league through two weeks (56), and that may not be sustainable.
With the Lions not showing much trust in Sione Vaki and Isiah Pacheco out indefinitely with a back injury, this team should consider every possible alternative for their running back room. That includes former players.
According to Lions insider Dave Birkett, former fan favorite Jamaal Williams reached out to the team about a potential reunion. He hasn't played since 2024, but he's looking to return to the league, and he's just 31.
Lions should work out Jamaal Williams to see if he has something left
"He reached out to Lions coach Dan Campbell last weekend to let Campbell know he was on the comeback trail," wrote Birkett. "And while Campbell said the Lions are holding tight at running back for now but would keep him in mind if things change, Williams is hopeful he'll land a job soon and is ready to contribute when he does."
The BYU product enjoyed his best years in Detroit. He was with the organization in 2021 and 2022, amassing 415 totes for 1,667 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns. Notably, the bulk of that came in 2022 when he led the league and set a then-franchise record with 17 touchdowns and 1,066 rushing yards.
Williams left the team after feeling disrespected by their offer, joining the New Orleans Saints for a rather uneventful tenure as Alvin Kamara's backup. Nevertheless, as much as he didn't care for how the Lions treated him back then, he's always had nothing but praise for head coach Dan Campbell.
The Lions may have bigger fish to fry and more concerns to address right now, especially on defense. Then again, they just can't wear their best player down like they're doing; they must find a reliable backup to take some pressure off Gibbs' shoulders.
Of course, bringing back a player who hasn't been in the league for two years might not be the wisest call, and it might reek of desperation. That said, the Lions should, in fact, be desperate for help at the position.
There's a new offensive coordinator in town, but Williams is familiar with Campbell's ways and coaching style. He was also a beloved figure in Detroit in the pre-Jahmyr Gibbs era, so the fan base would embrace him with open arms, though that shouldn't move the needle to make a move.
This team has more than enough time to get back on track, but the first two games of the season have raised more doubts and concerns than initially thought. And if Williams is willing to take a big pay cut now after turning down the Lions' offer years ago, they can probably do much worse.
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