NFL

From Rushing Leader To Free Agency: Jamaal Williams Works Out For Patriots

October 7, 2026

Former NFL rushing leader Jamaal Williams, who set a career-high with 1,066 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2022, worked out for the New England Patriots on Tuesday as the team evaluates its backfield options. The 31-year-old running back, who has accumulated 4,122 career rushing yards and 32 touchdowns, is seeking a new opportunity after being released by the New Orleans Saints in March 2025.

Williams, a fourth-round pick from BYU in 2017, previously spent time with the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions before his breakout season in 2022, where he broke Barry Sanders' Lions record for rushing touchdowns in a single season. His recent workouts come as the Patriots face a potential injury to lead back Rhamondre Stevenson, who left Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills early with an unspecified issue.

With only TreVeyon Henderson and Corey Kiner on the active roster behind Stevenson, the Patriots may be looking to bolster their depth ahead of their upcoming matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders. Williams’ timing aligns with the team’s need, as they also have two open roster spots following the release of edge rusher Jose Ramirez on Tuesday.