After going unsigned during the 2025 campaign, former New Orleans Saints backup RB Jamaal Williams is open to a new NFL opportunity this upcoming campaign. With Week 1 of the 2026 regular season underway, the veteran hopes an interested team could sign him. Selected as a fourth-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the former BYU product spent the first four seasons with the Green Bay Packers paired with now- Minnesota Vikings RB Aaron Jones as a one-two punch. He joined the Detroit Lions in 2021, signing a two-year contract and splitting carries with veteran D'Andre Swift.
Williams finished the following season with a league-leading 17 touchdowns while compiling 1,139 yards from scrimmage under now-Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson . Unfortunately, the former NFL rushing touchdowns leader became an afterthought following the 2024 season and since being released in 2025. The veteran running back appeared on The Schultz Report , hoping to find his next gig. He shares a message, but one that can be applied to himself, too:
"This is for the free agents," Williams said. "If you know you can still play, please keep playing. Play until you know you can't play anymore. This game is not forever. Play with respect, love the game, love yourself, and just don't give up on yourself if you know you can make it."
New Orleans Saints running back Jamaal Williams (21) does a video self for fans, Sunday, December 8, 2024, before the game, in East Rutherford.
Realistically, the veteran will probably have to wait a little longer to receive an opportunity. Despite showing flashes in New Orleans , there are other available free-agent running backs, including Austin Ekeler , Kareem Hunt and Antonio Gibson , waiting for a chance, too.
With Nick Chubb retiring and Joe Mixon on the verge of calling it a career, the former Green Bay Packer could follow in their footsteps. On a brighter note, while teams have solidified their depth charts, interested teams could reconsider before the upcoming postseason to bring in Williams as a mentor presence.
Potential landing spots for the veteran RB in the next pages:
Main Photo: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
With Jaydon Blue gone and after claiming Emari Demercado off waivers, the Dallas Cowboys have proven open to shuffling their running back room. While Williams won't get the start, he could be a proven veteran to help Malik Davis . Dallas has one of the best downhill runners, Javonte , but could use that presence in time for the postseason. Perhaps the former Saints RB could find a role as a complementary pass-catcher in situational moments.
Dec 4, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) runs during the first half against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images
Meanwhile, a reunion between Williams and Aaron Jones could work. The duo was one of the most underrated in Green Bay, and perhaps head coach Kevin O'Connell could restore nostalgia. It won't be perfect, but at least it backs Jordan Mason , who is likely the successor once Jones retires. Mason will remain RB2, but the former Packers RB could step in on crucial third-down possessions.
Dec 21, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jordan Mason (27) rushes the ball against the New York Giants during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
After seeing Rhamondre Stevenson in action in Week 1 of the 2026 regular season, the New England Patriots may need another running back. QB Drake Maye utilized the veteran RB throughout the majority of the contest ; Stevenson recorded 18 carries for 51 rushing yards and 5 receptions on 6 targets for 44 receiving yards. The signal-caller heavily relied on Stevenson, and while TreVeyon Henderson could return, it remains unclear when. If Henderson misses more time, the Patriots could roll the dice on Williams, as they haven't considered bringing back Antonio Gibson.
Oct 26, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson (38) runs with the ball during the third quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Green Bay Packers starter Josh Jacobs has recently pleaded "no contest" to the latest misdemeanor charges, but remains on the NFL Commissioner's Exempt List. Jacobs is expected to face a definitive league disciplinary decision, likely leading to a suspension. While the Packers traded for Kaleb Johnson , he's coming off a poor play with the Pittsburgh Steelers . The best route to restore faith in Green Bay is to bring back Williams to help Johnson, MarShawn Lloyd and Chris Brooks, and leave them in a better spot once he retires.
Main Photo: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Veteran starter Christian McCaffrey is in line to start against the Los Angeles Rams , but remains a risk. After losing Brian Robinson Jr. in free agency, the 49ers are rebuilding their RB depth. Isaac Guerendo has been placed on the physically unable to perform list, meaning he won't return until Week 5. Although he'll return at some point, the 49ers could consider signing a low-stakes RB, and Williams could be a part of that conversation.
Dec 28, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) runs against Chicago Bears cornerback Nahshon Wright (26) in the first half at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
