Cowboys Sign RB Ryan Williams
Ryan Williams’ stay on the open market didn’t last very long. Just days after being released by the Arizona Cardinals, the 24-year old running back had a visit with the Dallas Cowboys. Per reports, Williams “impressed” and quickly signed a new deal with the Cowboys.
Williams came out of Virginia Tech with much promise, displaying an excellent combination of size, speed and power. Unfortunately, after showing well in preseason play during his rookie season, Williams suffered a ruptured patellar tendon and missed the entire 2011 NFL season.
William appeared to return to full health for the 2012 season, but rushed for just 164 yards through five games before suffering a shoulder injury. This injury would also be season-ending, while Williams would later admit that he ran tentatively in his second season, as he never fully recovered from his knee injury from a mental aspect.
Although regarded as fully healthy for the 2013 season, Williams supposedly had these same issues and had minor issues with his knee that kept him buried on Arizona’s running back depth chart. He was a healthy scratch for all 16 games that season.
Now in Dallas, Williams looks to have his legs back and could pose as a serious threat to the backups behind starter DeMarco Murray.
Lance Dunbar is expected to be locked into Murray’s top backup role, and will serve as the first change of pace option on the depth chart. However, if Williams impressed enough, an ascension to direct backup behind Murray can’t be ruled out. For now, Williams will compete for the third and likely final spot in the backfield with former Oklahoma State product, Joseph Randle.
Randle has experience in the Cowboys offense after being drafted by Dallas last season, but has only moderate talent. If Williams can stay healthy and impress in camp, he has a realistic chance at beating out Randle for the final spot.
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