Darrel Williams 2022 Outlook
The Cardinals signed former Kansas City Chiefs running back Williams to a one-year contract in mid-May. Williams joined the Chiefs as an undrafted rookie free agent out of LSU in 2018 and worked his way up Kansas City's depth chart in each of the past three seasons. Williams was a crucial part of the Chiefs' offensive attack after Clyde Edwards-Helaire suffered an early injury in 2021, but he's not part of their plan going forward. In Arizona, Williams strengthens the Cardinals at the running back position, where they brought back veteran James Conner on a three-year deal after he scored 18 total touchdowns last season, but lost Chase Edmonds to the Dolphins in free agency. Arizona drafted USC's Keaontay Ingram with a sixth-round pick amid speculation he might emerge as the eventual replacement for Edmonds. Williams, though, now clearly seems to move into the No. 2 role on the depth chart, although Ingram is sure to get his opportunities. The Cardinals also have Eno Benjamin, Jonathan Ward and Jalen Samuels. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes vouched for Williams in recent conversations with the Cardinals, telling the team he both likes and trusts the running back, noting his pass protection and ball security (Williams had no fumbles on 191 carries last year).
Darrel Williams 2021 Outlook
The Chiefs brought back Williams, signing him to a one-year contract worth up to $2.13 million with $930,000 guaranteed. Williams, who was slated to become a restricted free agent, has been with Kansas City since signing as an undrafted rookie out of LSU in 2018. He's registered 664 yards from scrimmage and six total touchdowns in 34 games. He played all 16 contests in 2020, netting 169 yards rushing with a touchdown and 18 receptions for 116 yards. With Clyde Edwards-Helaire injured during the 2020 postseason, Williams even started a playoff matchup. In all, he had 135 rushing yards and a touchdown plus seven catches for 35 yards in three games. Andy Reid said that Williams has always had the ability, he just struggled to stay healthy in his first two seasons with the team. Still, it was up to Williams to answer the call. "When the opportunity does come, you gotta seize the moment," Williams said. ... As things stand now, those drafting handcuffs late should view Williams as first man up behind Edwards-Helaire with Darwin Thompson and Derrick Gore behind them joined by Elijah McGuire, who was added from the practice squad this offseason.
