Technically, Jamaal Williams is still a free agent and could return to Detroit. But the reality of the business of football makes it all but certain Williams will be playing elsewhere in 2023 after the Lions agreed to sign RB David Montgomery to a 3-year deal.
It’s a tough blow for Lions fans to see Williams no longer in the plans. Williams quickly became a fan favorite in his two seasons in Detroit for his eccentric, fun-loving personality, his hard-charging running style and his NFL-leading 17 touchdowns in 2022. He was the emotional heartbeat of the Lions offense and was beloved in both the locker room and the fanbase.
Many fans are taking to Twitter to shed their tears for Williams. Some of the tears are sadness, others saltier in angry disappointment. Here’s a sampling:
Jamaal Williams was born to be a Detroit Lion. I’ll miss you forever pic.twitter.com/isJdV9cp3K
— Jackmaal Willia〽️s (@jackwilly83) March 15, 2023
Man, I'm going to miss Jamaal Williams on the Lions… I heel like he was such a vibe and energy of that team. A lot of its heart.
— Scott Fish (@ScottFish24) March 15, 2023
I get it, but it will hurt to see Jamaal Williams go elsewhere. No way do the Lions win nine games in 2022 without the way he played. I’ll be forever pulling for him… except when he plays us.
We move. #OnePride https://t.co/qhQQOnGuSH
— Tony Dombrowski (@tonydombrowski) March 15, 2023
Honestly Jamaal Williams outplayed swift, if Detroit was gonna choose to let one go they chose wrong lol and idk how much Montgomery got left in the tank but oh well, I don’t even think he rushed for a 1,000 yards last year as the primary back
— EC (@EC_DET313) March 15, 2023
I know it's a business and all but damn, the Detroit Lions just ripped their heart & soul out by letting Jamaal Williams walk. 😢 pic.twitter.com/r4P2TtxzgU
— Jim Weber (@JimMWeber) March 15, 2023
It looks like Jamaal Williams found a team that will take him out and buy fancier dinners… and I don’t blame him, good for him!!
I will miss him 🥹 pic.twitter.com/n60xk3pfhx
— Sweta Patel (@sweta2311) March 15, 2023
Love David Montgomery as a back
Don’t like spending $6M a year on a back
Hate losing Jamaal.
— Jeremy Reisman (@DetroitOnLion) March 15, 2023
All love for Jamaal Williams. Bought into the culture and was a huge part of the turnaround they’ve made.
He’ll always have love from Detroit fans.
— DLB (@DetLionBlood) March 15, 2023
Damn, I'm gonna miss Jamaal Williams. I get it but it sucks.
— Isaac (@WorldofIsaac) March 15, 2023
