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The beloved former Lions running back has signed a three-year contract with the New Orleans Saints.
After the Detroit Lions agreed to walk back David Montgomery, the writing was on the wall for free agent Jamaal Williams. On Wednesday evening, the inevitable became reality. According to a report by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Williams signs a three-year contract with the New Orleans Saints.
Williams has been the emotional heart of the Lions for the past two seasons, showing what it means to be a hard worker and unapologetically be yourself. He took center stage during the training camp documentary ‘Hard Knocks’, rallying the troops on the field. It finally paid off in the regular season, as Williams posted a career-high with 1,066 rushing yards and set the Lions franchise record with 17 rushing touchdowns.
The Lions and Williams had a mutual interest in returning to Detroit, but the the latest reports suggested that the two sides were not close when it came to contract terms. In the end, the Lions broke off negotiations and signed Montgomery to a three-year, $18 million deal that included $11 million guaranteed.
So what did the Saints pay for Williams?
$12 million for three years with $8 million guaranteed, according to Ian Rapoport.
In two seasons, Williams managed to quickly become a fan favorite in Detroit, just as he did before in Green Bay. We wish Williams well in New Orleans, with the only exception when the Saints and Lions face off next year.
Williams has already expressed his heartfelt thanks to the city of Detroit:
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