Buffalo Bills Rookie Profile: Running Back Jonathan Williams
Over the course of the next week or so, we will be taking a look at the Buffalo Bills newest rookie draft picks. Now up to bat today is the Buffalo Bills fifth round pick from this past NFL Draft, running back Jonathan Williams
Bills Rookie Profile: Jonathan Williams
The Player
Big for his height at 220 pounds, Jonathan Williams provides the strength and speed needed to succeed in the NFL. With Lesean McCoy currently leading the extremely talented Buffalo backfield, I would not expect Williams to make an immediate impact this season.
Missing all of his final season at the University of Arkansas following foot surgery, Jonathan Williams only collegiate action during the last year was when he played during the Senior Bowl. Likely still rehabbing in terms of his football stamina, Williams could fit into the roster as a short down player.
Overall though, Williams is easily one of the top five running backs in this draft class talent wise. Should he manage to bring his foot back to full health and avoid injuries during his first few seasons in the league, the Buffalo Bills may have a future replacement for Lesean McCoy when he eventually leaves the team.
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The School
Rushing for 1,190 yards and 12 touchdowns his junior season despite sharing the backfield with fellow draftee Alex Collins, Jonathan Williams has proven in the past his ability to be a big time rusher when called upon. Likely if not for his surgery that caused him to miss his entire senior season, Williams would have been a day two selection.
Given his size, it is surprising to see many calling his quick feet possibly his best aspect. If he can continue this and begin to blend his strength and agility together, Williams could be a major force in the Buffalo backfield.
One area that will be a concern is the strength of the Arkansas line while he played. While that line dominated most, when it struggled, so did Williams. Time in the NFL will tell if his success was do to him or thanks to the Razorbacks offensive line.
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The Position
A definite running back in Buffalo, the current ability of the Buffalo Bills running back corps will likely demote Williams to a lower role with the team. Early in his career, he will likely be a role player, potentially the third and short or down and goal to go back.
Depending on his future health and the development of the rest of the running backs around him, Williams could develop into a future starter for the Bills. Producing the same talent that he showcased at Arkansas, Williams could be the future replacement for Lesean McCoy when he eventually leaves the team.
The Tape
Depending on how well his development and health goes, Jonathan Williams could be the next feature back for the Buffalo Bills and should begin to contribute from the middle to end of this season.
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