Damien Williams is the Miami Dolphins secret offensive weapon
Fighting for his job with the Miami Dolphins during the preseason, some questions were asked when Damien Williams actually made the roster for the Dolphins opening week contest at Seattle. His first two years in the league had been underwhelming — even for a third string running back — and he didn’t look to provide any real value.
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However, since the moment Arian Foster announced his retirement midway through the 2016 campaign, Damien Williams has not only proven himself as a solid backup running back but also as one of the Miami Dolphins most unknown weapons. Heck, I’d go even as far to call him an unsung hero and the secret weapon of the Dolphins offense.
Outperforming his numbers from his first two seasons, Williams is quickly developing a role with this offensive unit. He can both run the football and act as a great option in the passing game. His elusiveness in the open field allows him to earn those tough yards and convert key first downs when he is called upon. As far as backup running backs go, Williams is probably near the top of the list.
This season alone, Williams has five total touchdowns — three rushing, two receiving — as is on track for his best season to date. With Jay Ajayi being used as a workhorse running back, Williams is still managing to earn reps in key situations. Not only has he earned those reps, he is converting in those key situations which should lead to an increase in his appearances.
With his contract coming up for renewal this offseason, I firmly believe that the Miami Dolphins need to make a concerted effort to resign this undervalued player. Having a three-back combo in Jay Ajayi, Damien Williams, and Kenyan Drake will almost certainly set the positional group up for years to come.
Is Damien Williams the next great Dolphins running back? No. However, he is a player that not only plays his part within the offense, but plays his part well. Likely to come cheap considering his lack of name recognition, the Miami Dolphins need to do whatever is needed to bring back their backup running back.
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