The Kansas City Chiefs found out on Wednesday that they will be unable to rely on the services of a second offensive who will opt out of the upcoming NFL season due to coronavirus concerns.
Williams, who appeared in 11 games and started 6 for the Chiefs last season, establishing himself as the team’s #1 back down the stretch, informed the team of his decision earlier in the week.
The 28-year-old running back, who is married and has a young daughter, is not known to have any conditions that would qualify him for the higher-paid COVID-19 exemption if he follows through with his decision and doesn’t play this season. His decision may simply be based on the fact that he wants to protect his family from possible infection.
It won’t be easy for Kansas City to replace Williams in its backfield, as the former undrafted free agent put together good work down the stretch and in the playoffs for the defending Super Bowl champions. Williams rushed for 104 yards in the Super Bowl, scoring a touchdown, and also caught 4 passes and contributed a receiving touchdown in his team’s win.
While he was penciled in as the team’s starter at the position this season, the Chiefs will now have to look at secondary options such as first round pick Clyde Edwards-Helaire to carry the ball.
