RB Jamaal Williams on Packers Exit: “They Didn’t Want Me”

Jamaal Williams in 2021.
Jamaal Williams in 2021. Photo by Amy Lemus/NurPhoto/Shutterstock (12441404du)

Running back Jamaal Williams left the Green Bay Packers in the offseason to join their NFC North rivals, the Detroit Lions, on a two-year deal. But while Packers fans believe he betrayed them with this move, Williams says he didn’t have much say in it.

Speaking with reporters earlier this week, Williams revealed that he would have stayed in Green Bay if he had an opportunity but that the Packers didn’t want him. 

“Shoot, if I could have stayed, I could have stayed,” Williams said ahead of the Week 2 clash between the Lions and the Packers. “If I can’t, they didn’t want me.”

But the 26-year-old pro isn’t mad about the outcome. His time with the Lions started with a bang as he racked up 110 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns in the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers. And he feels appreciated in Detroit.

“Another man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” he concluded.

Jamaal Williams spent four years with the Packers, being a reliable backup for the franchise while contributing to the passing game. Despite this, the team decided not to offer him a new deal after his rookie contract expired and instead focused on extending Pro Bowl back to Aaron Jones.

In 60 games with the Packers, Williams racked up 1,985 rushing yards and 10 TDs. He also has 130 receptions for 1,017 receiving yards and eight scores.

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