Jamaal Williams, the absolute fan-favorite who blasted his way to a franchise-high 17 touchdowns for the Detroit Lions in 2022, just picked up the phone and called coach Dan Campbell about a reunion. Seriously, the dude is out of football since the end of the 2024 season after two unsuccessful years with the New Orleans Saints, but he’s staying in shape and wants back in the league. It sounds like he’s super interested in coming back to Detroit, even after what was reportedly a slightly messy divorce back in 2023. This is wild, right?
The Comeback Trail and “No Hard Feelings”
Williams was a huge part of the Lions’ heart and soul during his two-year run from 2021-22. His energy was off the charts, his leadership was undeniable, and let’s not forget how good he was on the field. But he bounced from Detroit after a free agency contract dispute, and his career just fizzled out with the Saints. Now, he’s telling the Detroit Free Press he called Campbell last weekend, letting him know he’s on the comeback trail. Campbell’s response? They’d keep the door open, but his services aren’t needed right now. Ouch, a little bit, but Campbell did say they’d keep him in mind if things change. Williams isn’t taking it personally, though. He told Birkett, “I didn’t want to go nowhere. I wanted to be there.” He wanted to stay in Detroit but said the Saints were the only team that offered what he wanted at the time. “There’s no personal feelings, no hard feelings,” he said. You gotta respect that honesty, even if it stings a bit for a guy who poured his heart out for the team.
Detroit’s Running Back Picture Is Complicated
So, why would Williams even think there’s a shot? Well, the Lions are currently down their RB2, Isiah Pacheco, who’s sidelined indefinitely after back surgery. Reports suggest Pacheco won’t be back until December at the earliest, and that *could* open up a power back role that Williams could fill. But here’s the kicker: Jahmyr Gibbs’ workload has absolutely exploded. Through just two weeks, Gibbs is tied with Chiefs running back Kenneth Walker for a league-leading 56 touches! That kind of workload really lessens the need for a backup. Plus, the Lions have a lot of faith in Sione Vaki, their 2024 fourth-round pick. He’s only got three rushes and two catches, but he’s played 33 offensive snaps, giving Gibbs a breather and proving himself a decent pass protector. And don’t forget Jacob Saylors, a strong special teamer who actually led the NFL in rushing yards this preseason. Campbell told Williams they’re holding tight at running back for now, and you can see why.
This whole situation is a total curveball. Will Williams land a job soon, ready to contribute like he says? Maybe. But for now, with Gibbs dominating touches and young guys like Vaki and Saylors stepping up, it looks like Jamaal will have to keep those phone lines open, hoping Campbell’s “door open” promise turns into an actual invitation. The Lions have a tough call if injuries stack up, but their current plan seems pretty locked in.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pride of Detroit.
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