On Tuesday, the New Orleans Saints made headlines by parting ways with seasoned running back Jamaal Williams. This decision marks the Saints’ most significant step in the offseason management of their roster, as they aim to clear a hefty $40 million to comply with the salary cap by March 12, when the new league year kicks off.
By releasing Williams, the Saints manage to free up $1.59 million in cap space, though it does result in a dead money charge of $2.34 million. It’s a financial maneuver that speaks to the balancing act the team faces as they juggle talent and budget constraints.
Back in 2023, Williams inked a three-year contract that promised an average salary of $4 million annually, with a substantial $8 million guaranteed. He joined the Saints after a stellar season with the Detroit Lions, where he led the NFL with 17 rushing touchdowns, setting high expectations for his tenure in New Orleans.
However, Williams, now 29, struggled to replicate that success. Over two seasons with the Saints, he amassed a modest total of 470 rushing yards and just two touchdowns. The arrival of Alvin Kamara’s contract extension last fall further diminished his role, making this release seemingly inevitable.
This isn’t the first tactical move in the Saints’ push for cap compliance. Earlier this January, they restructured the contract of Ryan Ramczyk, the right tackle, who, unfortunately, is expected to step away from the game due to persistent knee problems.
Such roster changes reflect the financial and strategic adjustments the Saints are navigating as they prepare for the new league year.
