Jamaal Williams is among the greatest running backs in BYU history and has built a solid eight-year NFL career. After two underwhelming seasons with the New Orleans Saints, the team recently decided to release the former BYU star. Despite his struggles with the Saints, Williams is just two years removed from rushing for 1,066 yards and leading the NFL with 17 touchdowns for the Detroit Lions.
As Williams enters his age-30 season, most teams prefer younger running backs over veterans. He will need to choose his next team wisely if he wants consistent playing time. Here are three potential landing spots for the former BYU standout when free agency starts on March 12th:
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings are familiar with Williams from facing him twice a year during his standout seasons with the Lions. Currently, the Vikings have only one running back under contract — Ty Chandler, who has 663 career rushing yards since being drafted in 2022. Chandler isn’t expected to be a game-changer.
Coming off a 14-3 record in the competitive NFC North, the Vikings are aiming for a deep playoff run in 2025. Signing a reliable, affordable veteran like Williams could bolster their backfield.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys have just two running backs under contract for 2025: Deuce Vaughan and Malik Davis. Vaughan has 110 career rushing yards, while Davis has 161 yards and hasn’t carried the ball since 2022. Both backs are smaller and lack the power to convert short-yardage plays like the 224-pound Williams.
With pressure mounting from division rivals like the Eagles and Commanders, the Cowboys might prefer a proven veteran like Williams to handle crucial “and short” situations rather than relying on unproven younger players.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns endured a disappointing 3-14 season and hold the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 draft. Many mock drafts predict they’ll select quarterbacks Cam Ward or Shedeur Sanders. If they draft a rookie quarterback, they’ll need experienced veterans to support him both on and off the field.
Williams could be a reliable one-year option to share the load with Jerome Ford, who has rushed for over 1,300 yards and seven touchdowns in the last two seasons. His veteran presence would provide smart pass protection and help lighten Ford’s workload.
