The Indianapolis Colts backfield might be among the deepest positions they have on the roster, especially considering the production they got out of Jonathan Williams when he needed to step in.
2019 Stats
Games Played: 9
Snaps: 99 (9%)
Carries: 49
Rushing Yards: 239
Touchdowns: 1
Yards Per Carry: 4.8
Season Review
Williams was the fourth body in the Colts running back room, but he was efficient with the work he received. Though he was a reserve in the backfield, he stepped up when the Colts needed him to following Marlon Mack’s broken hand.
During that game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Williams took over the duties in the backfield in the second half. He finished that game taking 13 carries for 116 yards in less than a half. He started the next game against the Houston Texans and took 26 carries for 104 yards and a touchdown on Thursday Night Football.
Williams is explosive and talented, holding a reserve role in case anything happens to the other running backs in the room.
Offseason Outlook
While Mack, Jordan Wilkins and Nyheim Hines are all under contract through the 2020 season, the same can’t be said about Williams. The 25-year-old is an unrestricted free agent this offseason and could test the market.
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Colts bring back Williams in the same role he held during the 2019 season. If the Colts bring him back, their backfield would be completely solidified entering the offseason workouts.
Conclusion
Williams showed that backfield success isn’t only for the aforementioned Mack. He’s still young and showed plenty of explosiveness to warrant another contract. If the Colts don’t bring him back, Williams could find work with another team quickly.
