Breaking News: New Orleans Saints Cut Ties with Speedy Former Steelers RB
The New Orleans Saints have made a surprising offseason move, releasing running back **Jamaal Williams**, a versatile, quick-footed tailback who played with the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier in his career.
Williams, 30, signed with the Saints in March 2023 on a three‑year, \$12 million contract after a breakout 2022 season with the Detroit Lions—where he rushed for 1,066 yards and tied for the NFL lead with 17 touchdowns. But his time in New Orleans fell flat. Over two seasons, he managed just 470 rushing yards and two total touchdowns.
Despite his explosive potential and versatility, Williams never found a consistent role behind Alvin Kamara, with the team instead electing to lean on younger backs like Kendre Miller, Jordan Mims, and Clyde Edwards‑Helaire—plus veteran depth from fullback-style players.
Why the cut
One factor is cap relief. Releasing Williams will save the Saints approximately \$1.59 million in 2025, and potentially up to \$3.15 million in savings if designated a post–June 1 cut. It also paves the way for New Orleans to embrace its youth movement, perhaps eyeing a running back in the upcoming NFL Draft.
The team’s offense, under new coordinator Kellen Moore, is expected to emphasize a more dynamic running game—something Williams struggled to consistently deliver on.
Career overview
Williams originally made waves with Detroit, leading the league in rushing touchdowns in 2022. That performance earned him a hefty Saints contract, but he averaged a disappointing 2.9 yards per carry behind a shaky offensive line. His decline, regardless of talent, shed light on both his limitations and the team’s shifting priorities.
Looking ahead
The Saints are now firmly committed to a backfield led by Alvin Kamara, with Miller, Mims, and Edwards‑Helaire providing complementary options.
A youth-first draft pick could soon enter the fold, giving New Orleans a faster, fresher ground attack under Moore’s envisioned scheme.
For Williams, the move is far from the end. League insiders suggest his speed and goal-line prowess could attract immediate interest. Potential landing spots include the San Francisco 49ers, New England Patriots, Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers, New York Giants, Seattle Seahawks, Carolina Panthers, and Cleveland Browns. Most expect his talents to be swiftly claimed in free agency.
The Saints’ decision to cut Jamaal Williams underscores both a strategic roster reset and a cap-conscious approach. While the veteran back brought speed and a proven resume, it was clear he no longer fit the New Orleans vision.
Now facing uncertainty, Williams will look to resurrect his career elsewhere—while the Saints prepare to usher in a younger, more dynamic era at the position.