Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has reportedly been contacted by a former running back about a possible return to the franchise.

Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reported that Jamaal Williams had reached out to Campbell last weekend about a possible comeback. The veteran running back has been out of the league since the end of the 2024 season.

However, the Lions don't seem to be considering a reunion right now. Campbell told Williams that Detroit was holding tight at running back, though he would keep him in mind if the situation changed.

Williams remains interested in returning to the NFL and believes he can still contribute. Detroit is also without Isiah Pacheco, but Jahmyr Gibbs, Sione Vaki and Jacob Saylors are all available.

Birkett reported that Williams was hopeful of landing a job soon. For now, though, a return to Detroit does not appear imminent. The Lions could revisit the possibility if their running back situation changes later.

Jamaal Williams left a lasting impression during his Lions tenure

Jamaal Williams spent two seasons with Detroit after joining the Lions in 2021. He quickly became a popular figure in the locker room and provided reliable production.

His biggest season came in 2022, when Williams rushed for 1,066 yards and a franchise-record 17 touchdowns. He surpassed Barry Sanders’ previous mark of 16 rushing touchdowns.

Williams left Detroit after 2022 and signed with the New Orleans Saints. He spent two seasons there before leaving the NFL after the 2024 campaign.

Written by

Sayantan