Patriots Bolster Running Back Roster with Veteran Signing
The New England Patriots have strengthened their running back corps by signing veteran Trayveon Williams on Wednesday. The 28-year-old spent the last six seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he primarily excelled as a core special team contributor. To accommodate Williams on their 90-man roster, the Patriots released defensive tackle Eric Johnson.
Williams has been a consistent presence on the field, participating in every game for the Bengals over the last two seasons. Although he primarily contributed on special teams—playing a remarkable 253 snaps in that role last year—he also had a more significant offensive presence in 2023, participating in 14.3% of the offensive snaps. Throughout his career, Williams has accumulated 307 rushing yards, along with 15 receptions for 74 yards, and has registered 14 tackles on special teams.
In addition to his offensive skills, Williams possesses kick return experience, having returned 33 kickoffs for 743 yards, averaging 22.5 yards per return. He will now join a revamped running back room that features talents like Rhamondre Stevenson, Treveyon Henderson, Antonio Gibson, Terrell Jennings, Lan Larison, and fullback Brock Lame.
Johnson, the defensive tackle who was previously claimed off waivers by the Patriots last summer, played 11 games for New England, registering 17 tackles. His departure comes as the Patriots have bolstered their defensive tackle lineup this offseason, featuring players such as Christian Barmore, Milton Williams, and others, solidifying a formidable depth chart.
As the Patriots continue to refine their roster ahead of the new season, Williams’s versatile skill set may serve as a valuable asset on both offense and special teams.
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