Jamaal Williams Did “OK” In 2017

Most people would say Green Bay Packers running back Jamaal Williams had a successful rookie season. Perhaps even a surprising rookie season in 2017.

Williams would not say that, however. He would say his rookie year went just OK.

“It went OK. My expectations will always be higher than anybody puts on me,” Williams said. “Overall, I think I did OK in how I handled it and the situations I was put in and the opportunities that I got. I’ve been through a year already and I know what to expect. Really now, it’s recalculating what I did good and did bad and adjust a little bit.”

Williams ran for 556 yards — a team high — and added another 262 yards on 25 catches. He had six total touchdowns, four on the ground and two through the air.

Williams will again be in the mix for the Packers this year, but the team is going with a running back by committee. Ty Montgomery and Aaron Jones — after he returns from suspension — will also be in the mix.

If any one of the three backs is going to separate himself from the pack, the smart money is on Jones. Williams will have his shot early, though. Injuries will also likely play a role in who carries the ball, as it did in 2017.

What does Williams expect in 2018? He talked about scoring his first touchdown in 2017 and how he plans on getting into the end zone a lot more in his second year.

“I’ll always remember my first touchdown, but that was at the end of the game and it didn’t matter that I scored,” Williams said. “But it will always be my first touchdown. Probably my game against the Browns because I caught a receiving touchdown. I had two dances. I was surprised they left me open. That was the funny part. I got more dances this year. I’m expecting to get into the end zone a lot more, too.”

Williams may well get into the end zone more in 2018. We could see him developing more into the Packers’ short-yardage back. The hammer.

Jones is more of a home run hitter. Montgomery is more of a match-up problem because of his skill as a receiver. Williams could be the perfect red zone back.