A day after releasing veteran running back Zach Zenner, the Detroit Lions have filled his position on the roster with another back. On Wednesday, the team announced that they have signed undrafted rookie running back James Williams.
Williams was first signed by the Kansas City Chiefs after the draft, but was waived after a month on the roster. From there, he was picked up by the Colts, but released last week. Williams did get a workout with the Patriots a few days ago, but the Lions scooped him up prior to Thursday’s preseason finale against the Cleveland Browns.
At Washington State, Williams was a stud. In 39 games, he logged 316 carries for 1,539 yards (4.9 YPC) and 19 touchdowns while adding 202 catches for 1,437 yards and another eight scores.
James Williams went undrafted in the 2019 draft class.
— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) May 5, 2019
James Williams posted a Good #RAS with Poor size, Good speed, Good explosiveness, Good agility at the RB position.#Chiefs pic.twitter.com/XeELG7FXMZ
With only the final preseason game left, Williams does not have a realistic chance at making the team’s final 53-man roster. However, the Lions can showcase him on Thursday night and see if he’s worth a crack at their practice squad. This preseason so far, Williams has had 11 carries for 39 yards and five catches for 33 yards..