NY Jets are 'very interested' in free-agent RB Jamaal Williams

The NY Jets could be looking to add some extra running back depth in the form of a former teammate of Aaron Rodgers. Tyler Dunne reported on Saturday that the Jets are one of a few teams that are "very interested" in free-agent running back Jamaal Williams.

Dunne identified the Jets, Cincinnati Bengals, and Buffalo Bills as three teams interested in signing Williams, but he also insisted that there is "mutual interest" in a return to Detroit. Williams is expected to have an active market.

This isn't the first time the Jets have expressed interest in signing Williams. The Jets were reportedly eyeing the former Green Bay Packers running back in the 2021 offseason before he signed with the Lions.

Now set to be a free agent again, the Jets are rumored to be interested again. His connection to Rodgers makes this a very intriguing situation to watch.

Jamaal Williams would be an excellent pickup for the NY Jets

Most didn't assume the Jets to target a running back this offseason, but it does make sense. Breece Hall is recovering from a torn ACL, Michael Carter put together a disappointing sophomore NFL season, and Zonovan Knight tapered off after a hot start to his career.

The Jets could use some extra security behind Hall, and Williams would give them just that. The former fourth-round pick has long been one of the more undervalued running backs in the NFL.

Williams is a powerful, consistent runner between the tackles who doubles as an excellent blocker and a very capable pass-catcher. He's coming off a career year in which he finished with 1,066 yards and a league-leading 17 rushing touchdowns.

On top of that, Williams is a highly-regarded locker-room leader who drew rave reviews during his time in Detroit. He also has a close personal relationship with Rodgers dating back to his Green Bay days.

Even without the Rodgers connection, it would make sense for the jets to target Williams. Perhaps this is one of those "package deals" Sauce Gardner was referring to, however.

The Jets would absolutely benefit from having a player like Jamaal Williams on their roster in 2023.