- Trayveon Williams
- #38
- Team CLE
- Pos RB
- Status AActive
-
Could be top backup
Williams is in line to back up Quinshon Judkins in Week 16, as Dylan Sampson (hand) has been ruled out, per Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Analysis: The Browns were in a similar situation last week when Williams made his Cleveland debut, as both Sampson and Jerome Ford (shoulder) were unavailable. It was somewhat surprising that Williams got the nod as the top backup ahead of Raheim Sanders, who's been with the organization all season. However it shakes out Sunday against the Bills, neither of the backups are expected to play a significant role as long as Judkins is healthy.
Published: Sat, Dec 20 at 6:02am by Rotowire.com
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Debuts for Cleveland
Williams had one carry for three yards and caught both of his targets for four yards in Sunday's 31-3 loss to Chicago in Week 15. He also returned two kickoffs for 41 yards.
Analysis: Williams, who was signed off the Chargers' practice squad early in the week, was making his Cleveland debut. The Browns were down two backs, as both Dylan Sampson (calf) and Jerome Ford (shoulder) were unavailable. It's noteworthy that Williams was allotted 19 snaps, while Raheim Sanders, who has been with the Browns all season, was active but did not play. Once Sampson is healthy enough to play, Williams will slip back a spot on the depth chart, if not off the roster entirely.
Published: Mon, Dec 15 at 4:49am by Rotowire.com
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Signed to Cleveland's active roster
The Browns signed Williams off the Chargers' practice squad to the active roster Tuesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
Analysis: Williams joined the Chargers' practice squad in late October after being cut by the Browns in early September. He appeared in three regular-season games for the Bolts, but he'll get a new opportunity in Cleveland, where he'll provide backfield depth behind Raheim Sanders and rookies Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson.
Published: Tue, Dec 9 at 4:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Back with practice squad
Williams reverted to the Chargers' practice squad Monday, per the NFL's official transaction log.
Analysis: Williams elevated for the third game in a row ahead of Sunday's 31-14 win over the Raiders, failing to record any stats while playing 14 snaps on special teams. The running back didn't garner an offensive snap while Kimani Vidal (51) and Jaret Patterson (15) operated ahead of him in the backfield. With Omarion Hampton (ankle) nearing a return to action, Williams will likely remain on the practice squad or operate in an extreme depth role moving forward.
Published: Mon, Dec 1 at 6:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Elevated off practice squad
The Chargers elevated Williams from their practice squad to the active roster Saturday ahead of Sunday's game versus the Raiders.
Analysis: Williams will be elevated for the third straight game and will provide additional depth at running back due to Omarion Hampton (ankle) being out. The 28-year-old Williams has carried the ball three times for a loss of one yard so far this season and will likely have a limited role again Sunday. This is the final time this season that the team can elevate Williams, and they will have to sign him to the active roster in order for him to appear in another game.
Published: Sat, Nov 29 at 2:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Makes way back to practice squad
Williams reverted to the Chargers' practice squad Monday, per the NFL's transaction log.
Analysis: Williams got his second elevation of the season ahead of Sunday's loss to the Jaguars. He worked as Los Angeles' No. 2 running back, logging 18 of the team's 48 offensive snaps (behind Kimani Vidal's 25 and Amar Johnson's four). Williams finished with three carries for minus-1 yard and caught his only target for zero yards. He also logged 12 snaps on special teams, returning one kick for 22 yards. The Chargers are on bye in Week 12, and rookie Omarion Hampton (IR, ankle) has a chance to return…read more
Published: Mon, Nov 17 at 7:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Brought up from practice squad
The Chargers elevated Williams from the practice squad to the active roster Saturday.
Analysis: Williams will join the Chargers' active roster for a second consecutive game to provide backfield depth for Kimani Vidal for Sunday's game against the Jaguars. Williams played solely on special teams during the Chargers' Week 10 win over the Steelers and returned two kickoffs for 51 yards in that contest, but he could share some backfield rotational snaps with fellow practice squad running back Amar Johnson.
Published: Sat, Nov 15 at 4:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Reverts to practice squad
Williams reverted to the Chargers' practice squad Monday, per the NFL's transaction log.
Analysis: All 12 of Williams' snaps during Sunday's 25-10 win over the Steelers came on special teams, and he turned two kickoff returns into 51 yards. The 2019 sixth-rounder is eligible to be elevated from the Chargers' practice squad twice more this season, and his next promotion to the active roster could take place Week 11 against the Jaguars as Omarion Hampton (ankle), Hassan Haskins (hamstring) and Najee Harris (Achilles) are all on injured reserve.
Published: Mon, Nov 10 at 6:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Elevated to Bolts' active roster
The Chargers elevated Williams from the practice squad to the active roster Saturday.
Analysis: Williams and fellow practice squad running back Jaret Patterson have both been elevated to the Chargers' active roster, and they will provide backfield depth behind Kimani Vidal against the Steelers on Sunday. Williams appeared in 17 regular-season games for the Bengals in 2024, though he mostly played on special teams and did not record a carry or target.
Published: Sat, Nov 8 at 2:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Signed to Bolts' practice squad
The Chargers signed Williams to the practice squad Tuesday.
Analysis: Williams was cut from the Browns' practice squad in early September, but the 2019 sixth-round pick will get fresh start with the Chargers. He could be elevated to the roster for Thursday's game against the Vikings if Hassan Haskins (hamstring) isn't cleared to play this week, which would leave Los Angeles with a need for backfield depth. Williams appeared in 17 games for the Bengals in 2024, but he primarily served on special teams and didn't record a carry or target.
Published: Tue, Oct 21 at 2:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Cut from Browns' practice squad
The Browns cut Williams from the practice squad Tuesday.
Analysis: The move makes room on the practice squad for defensive tackle Ralph Holley. Williams initially caught on with the Browns' scout team after failing to make the team's 53-man roster at the end of training camp, but the 2019 sixth-rounder will now look to catch on with an organization in need of backfield depth. He appeared in 17 regular-season games for the Bengals in 2024 and mostly served in a special-teams role.
Published: Tue, Sep 9 at 2:54pm by Rotowire.com
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Signs with Browns' practice squad
Williams signed with Cleveland's practice squad Wednesday.
Analysis: Williams and Ahmani Marshall will provide organizational depth at running back for the Browns. While Cleveland's depth chart at the position is uncertain, the Browns gained one more mouth to feed Wednesday when they claimed Raheim Sanders on waivers, adding him to the roster alongside Jerome Ford and Dylan Sampson, as well as unsigned rookie Quinshon Judkins.
Published: Wed, Aug 27 at 12:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Released by Cleveland
The Browns released Williams on Tuesday.
Analysis: Williams was signed earlier this month to provide some backfield depth for training camp and the preseason. He logged 43 offensive snaps across three exhibitions and rushed seven times for 30 yards, adding five catches for 33 yards on eight targets. Williams turns 28 years old in October.
Published: Tue, Aug 26 at 12:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Headed to Cleveland
The Browns signed Williams to a contract Monday.
Analysis: Williams was let go by the Patriots on Wednesday, but he now has the opportunity to earn a spot on the Browns' roster. The 2019 sixth-rounder spent the first six years of his NFL career with the Bengals and served as a special-teams specialist in 2024, with only 10 of his 262 snaps coming on offense.
Published: Mon, Aug 4 at 2:22pm by Rotowire.com
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Cut by New England
The Patriots released Williams on Wednesday.
Analysis: Williams signed a one-year contract with the Patriots in May and was gunning for a spot on the 53-man roster as a backup running back, but he will have to look elsewhere for an opportunity. The 2019 sixth-round pick spent the first six years of his NFL career with the Bengals, though he primarily served on special teams in 2024 and did not record a single carry across 17 regular-season games.
Published: Wed, Jul 30 at 5:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Lands with Patriots
The Patriots signed Williams on Wednesday.
Analysis: Williams spent the first six seasons of his career with the Bengals. He didn't record a single offensive touch during the 2024 campaign as he played almost exclusively on special teams and will likely have a similar role with New England should he win a spot on their gameday roster.
Published: Wed, May 14 at 5:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Zero carries all season
Williams played just one offensive snap in the Bengals' season finale against the Steelers and didn't have a carry or target, despite Chase Brown (ankle) sitting the game out.
Analysis: In fact, Williams didn't net a single carry nor target all season long, playing just 10 offensive snaps all season. He last had a kickoff return in Week 4 against the Panthers. Unless the Bengals value his kick and punt coverage, he's unlikely to be a part of their future.
Published: Thu, Jan 9 at 11:12am by Rotowire.com
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Plays only on special teams
Williams played all 13 of his snaps on special teams in Monday's 27-20 win over the Cowboys.
Analysis: With trade-deadline pickup Khalil Herbert fully up to speed with the Cincinnati offense, Williams' already muted role on offense has completely evaporated. He's seen all of his snaps on special teams in each of the Bengals' last three contests.
Published: Wed, Dec 11 at 9:26am by Rotowire.com
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Makes debut on offense
Williams played seven of the Bengals' 74 snaps on offense but didn't log any touches in Sunday's 41-24 win over the Raiders.
Analysis: Through the Bengals' first eight games of the season, Williams' snaps had come exclusively on special teams, but he saw his first action on offense Week 9 with Zack Moss (neck) ruled out for the contest. Chase Brown started and dominated the snaps (59) while handling all of the running-back opportunities (27 carries, five receptions), leaving no touches for either Williams or practice-squad call-up Kendall Milton (five snaps). Moss is expected to miss the rest of the regular season due to his…read more
Published: Tue, Nov 5 at 8:04am by Rotowire.com
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Stuck in special-teams role
Williams played all 14 of his snaps on special teams in Sunday's 17-7 win over the Giants.
Analysis: Williams has been active for each of the Bengals' first six games but still has yet to play a snap on offense. He'll remain out of the mix on offense as Cincinnati's No. 3 back while both Chase Brown and Zack Moss are healthy.
Published: Mon, Oct 14 at 9:39am by Rotowire.com
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Limited to special-teams role
Williams played 14 snaps -- all on special teams -- in Monday's 38-33 loss to the Commanders.
Analysis: Williams has been active for each of the Bengals' first three games, but he has yet to make his 2024 debut on offense while Cincinnati has turned to Zack Moss and Chase Brown to handle all the running-back snaps. His standing as a part-time kick returner and core member of the Bengals' special-teams coverage units should allow Williams to continue to suit up on a weekly basis, but he may not be guaranteed a substantial role out of the backfield even if one of Moss or Brown were to miss time.
Published: Wed, Sep 25 at 7:41am by Rotowire.com
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Back with Cincinnati
The Bengals re-signed Williams on Thursday.
Analysis: Williams has returned to the Bengals' 53-man roster after he was released Wednesday to make room for K.J. Henry, whom Cincinnati picked up off waivers. The sixth-year running back remains firmly behind Chase Brown and Zack Moss on the Bengals' depth chart, so he's expected to be used primarily as a special-teams player in 2024.
Published: Thu, Aug 29 at 1:09pm by Rotowire.com
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Cut by Cincy
The Bengals released Williams on Wednesday.
Analysis: Williams made Cincinnati's initial 53-man roster Tuesday, only to subsequently get cut Wednesday to make room on the roster for edge rusher K.J. Henry, whom the Bengals claimed on waivers from Washington. His departure leaves Zack Moss and Chase Brown as the only healthy running backs on Cincinnati's roster, and Charlie Jones may be tasked with returning kickoffs in addition to punts.
Published: Wed, Aug 28 at 2:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Starts preseason loss
Williams had six carries for 22 yards and two catches for 19 yards in a preseason loss to the Bears on Saturday.
Analysis: Williams got the start with Zack Moss and Chase Brown among the many Bengals rested. There's not much fantasy appeal to a 2019 sixth-round pick who has mostly played special teams to this point in his career, but Williams at least appears on track for a back-end roster spot after fellow running back Chris Evans suffered a season-ending knee injury a few days earlier.
Published: Mon, Aug 19 at 7:32am by Rotowire.com
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Staying with Bengals
Williams is signing a one-year contract to stay with the Bengals.
Analysis: There was some discussion last offseason about Williams potentially replacing Samaje Perine as Cincy's No. 2 running back, but the 2019 sixth-round pick mostly continued to play special teams. Williams' 156 snaps on offense were easily a career high, but that equated to only 14.4 percent of the team total, whereas on special teams he took 64.2 percent of available snaps (294 overall). He has 77 touches for 381 yards and no touchdowns in 51 career games, and he'll likely be the third-string RB…read more
Published: Mon, Mar 11 at 7:45am by Rotowire.com
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Doesn't see much action
Williams played in all 17 regular-season games for the Bengals in 2023 but recorded only 15 carries for 69 yards and no touchdowns and seven catches for 10 yards and no scores.
Analysis: The running back will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Williams signed a one-year deal with the Bengals before the 2023 campaign. The 2019 sixth-round pick has not yet scored a TD in five NFL seasons, all with Cincinnati.
Published: Thu, Feb 8 at 5:26pm by Rotowire.com
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No touches against Steelers
Williams failed to record a single rush or target in Sunday's 16-10 loss to the Steelers.
Analysis: Williams played just eight snaps against the Steelers, which was his lowest total of the season. Sunday marked the fourth time the veteran running back did not earn a carry in a contest this season. With that said, Cincinnati did not commit to the run in the game, as starter Joe Mixon recorded just eight rushes, while quarterback Jake Browning handled three carries of his own. With Mixon cemented as the Bengals' top option out of the backfield, Williams has an uphill battle to earn more…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 29 at 2:48am by Rotowire.com
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More of the same
Williams had two carries for 20 yards while playing 17 offensive snaps in Thursday night's loss to the Ravens.
Analysis: While Williams garnered a few more snaps than usual due to the Bengals' big deficit in the fourth quarter, that didn't translate to more touches because they were throwing the ball nearly every play. Chase Brown just got designated to return from IR, so in a week or two Williams might have more competition behind Joe Mixon.
Published: Mon, Nov 20 at 9:27am by Rotowire.com
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Catches one pass in loss
Williams reeled in his lone target for two yards and didn't have any carries in Sunday's 30-27 loss to the Texans.
Analysis: Williams went without a carry for the third time this season, as starter Joe Mixon handled all running-back totes in the contest. The 26-year-old played just 14 of the Bengals' 64 offensive snaps Sunday. Williams seems unlikely to challenge for more opportunities in the offense, barring an injury to Mixon.
Published: Wed, Nov 15 at 5:00am by Rotowire.com
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Another modest role
Williams had three carries for 13 yards in Sunday night's win over the Bills while playing 13 offensive snaps.
Analysis: With the game result in question up until the very end, there were very few opportunities for Williams to make an impact offensively. He did however contribute 61 yards in kick returns.
Published: Tue, Nov 7 at 12:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Minimal role in victory
Williams had two carries for six yards on 11 offensive snaps in Sunday's win over the Niners.
Analysis: Even with Chase Brown on IR, there wasn't much room for Williams to make an impact. Only on a few occasions have the Bengals not used Joe Mixon as a three-down back, and Williams is unlikely to dislodge Mixon from that role.
Published: Tue, Oct 31 at 11:21am by Rotowire.com
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Two catches in win
Williams caught both of his targets for three yards in Sunday's 17-13 win over the Seahawks.
Analysis: Williams failed to record a single rush in the contest while operating as the team's No. 2 running back. The veteran played just nine of the Bengals' 54 offensive snaps Sunday, limiting his usage behind starter Joe Mixon. Barring an injury to Mixon, Williams remains far off the fantasy radar heading into Cincinnati's Week 7 bye.
Published: Wed, Oct 18 at 2:51am by Rotowire.com
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One carry in win
Williams rushed once for five yards in Sunday's 34-20 win over the Cardinals.
Analysis: Williams handled just one carry for the third straight game Sunday. The veteran running back played just 12 of the Bengals' 82 offensive snaps, well behind starter Joe Mixon who saw the field for 63 snaps. Williams' lack of involvement will keep him far off the fantasy radar barring an injury to Mixon. Next up, the Bengals will host the Seahawks in Week 6.
Published: Wed, Oct 11 at 4:40am by Rotowire.com
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One carry in loss
Williams handled one carry for four yards in Sunday's 27-3 loss to the Titans.
Analysis: Despite operating as Cincinnati's No. 2 running back, Williams was unable to get involved in the game plan Sunday behind starter Joe Mixon. The fifth-year back played on just six of the Bengals' 53 offensive snaps in the contest, while Mixon handled 42 snaps. With such limited involvement, Williams' doesn't hold much fantasy utility, barring injuries. The Bengals are set to visit the Cardinals in Week 5.
Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 3:06am by Rotowire.com
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Minimal role as backup
Williams didn't log any carries and had two catches for four yards in Sunday's loss to the Ravens.
Analysis: With Chris Evans inactive, Williams was the primary backup to Joe Mixon, even getting snaps on the first drive of the game. But with the Bengals trailing by two scores for most of the second half, there weren't many carries to spread around.
Published: Sun, Sep 17 at 4:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Minimal usage in Week 1
Williams played 15 offensive snaps in a Week 1 loss to the Browns, carrying the ball twice for seven yards.
Analysis: Williams is currently third in line on the team for carries, with Joe Mixon getting the vast majority of opportunities and Chris Evans working in on passing downs. Williams' 25 snaps on special teams likely explained why he was active and rookie Chase Brown was not.
Published: Tue, Sep 12 at 12:31pm by Rotowire.com
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In backup mix Sunday
Williams and Chris Evans are slated to work behind Joe Mixon in Sunday's season opener against the Browns, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Rookie fifth-rounder Chase Brown is a candidate to join the team's backfield mix as the season rolls along, but he's inactive for Week 1. As a result, Williams and Evans are in line to handle complementary touches behind Mixon, with Williams a candidate to serve as an early-down backup and third-down work up for grabs.
Published: Sun, Sep 10 at 9:23am by Rotowire.com
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In clear for Week 1
Williams (ankle) wasn't listed Wednesday on the Bengals' initial Week 1 injury report.
Analysis: Williams missed a few weeks of practice and preseason action after spraining his ankle Aug. 1. He's now ready to play in Sunday's game in Cleveland, though even as part of a shaky Cincinnati backfield he'll probably be a healthy inactive or restricted to special teams rather than handling a significant role on offense. Chris Evans and Chase Brown both are more likely to get playing time off the bench behind Joe Mixon.
Published: Wed, Sep 6 at 2:04pm by Rotowire.com
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To be 100 percent next week
Williams (ankle) said Thursday he expects to be back to full health next week, Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official site reports.
Analysis: Williams has an opportunity to compete for a change-of-pace role behind top running back Joe Mixon, when healthy. A mild right ankle sprain suffered Aug. 1 forced Williams to miss the entire preseason, but barring any setbacks, he seems on track to return to full health ahead of Week 1's opener at Cleveland. Chase Brown and Chris Evans (undisclosed) will also be in contention for backup snaps behind Mixon.
Published: Fri, Sep 1 at 8:54am by Rotowire.com
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In line to practice soon
Coach Zac Taylor said Tuesday that Williams (ankle) is slated to practice this week, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
Analysis: Williams suffered a mild right ankle sprain during an Aug. 1 practice and proceeded to miss the entire preseason slate. After spending all month in recovery mode, though, his return to drills is imminent. While the Bengals entrust their backfield in Joe Mixon, Williams will be among the options for reps behind him along with Chris Evans (undisclosed) and 2023 fifth-round pick Chase Brown after the team waived undrafted rookies Jacob Saylors and Calvin Tyler on Tuesday.
Published: Tue, Aug 29 at 3:25pm by Rotowire.com
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Doesn't dress Saturday
Williams (ankle) is not in uniform for Saturday's preseason game against the Commanders, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports.
Analysis: Williams has been dealing with an ankle sprain since Aug. 1, which has caused him to miss all three preseason bouts. With running back Chris Evans (undisclosed) also out of Saturday's game, rookie Chase Brown should get a heavy workload in the Bengals' preseason finale.
Published: Sat, Aug 26 at 4:21pm by Rotowire.com
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Week-to-week with ankle sprain
Coach Zac Taylor said Williams (ankle) is in a walking boot and considered week-to-week, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Williams was already diagnosed with a mild ankle sprain after going down in practice earlier in the week. The veteran is competing for the No. 2 running back job vacated by Samaje Perine behind Joe Mixon. Chris Evans and rookie Chase Brown will now soak up more of those opportunities in Williams' absence.
Published: Fri, Aug 4 at 10:58am by Rotowire.com
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Slated to miss time
Williams was diagnosed Thursday with a mild right ankle sprain and is expectd to miss a couple of weeks, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Williams, who entered training camp in contention for the top backup role behind starting back Joe Mixon, thus is in line to miss the Bengals' preseason opener, at a minimum. In his looming absence, added backfield reps will be available for Chase Brown and Chris Evans.
Published: Thu, Aug 3 at 10:19am by Rotowire.com
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Dealing with ankle sprain
Williams, who was carted off the practice field Tuesday, is thought to have suffered a mild ankle sprain, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: The report suggests that Williams will likely miss a couple of weeks, assuming the initial diagnosis is confirmed. It seems safe to assume the running back won't play in the Bengals' preseason opener, but it appears as though Williams avoided a serious injury and will be able to re-enter the backup mix behind starter Joe Mixon before too long. While he's sidelined, added RB reps will be available for Chase Brown and Chris Evans.
Published: Tue, Aug 1 at 1:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Exits with leg injury
Williams suffered an apparent leg injury Tuesday, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: It's too early to know for sure, but initial reports make it sound like the injury could be serious. Williams is entering his fifth pro season and has mostly played special teams to date, but the Bengals' lack of backfield depth behind Joe Mixon gives him a chance at the third-down role. The team otherwise has Chase Brown, Chris Evans and a couple undrafted rookies competing for spots in camp.
Published: Tue, Aug 1 at 11:55am by Rotowire.com
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Could get more touches in Year 5
Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan recently referred to Williams as an "ascending player" and suggested the running back should get "more opportunities" in 2023, Richard Skinner of Local 12 Cincinnati reports.
Analysis: The 2019 sixth-round pick is entering his fifth season with the Bengals and re-signed this March after playing only 138 offensive snaps in 34 games over the past four years. Williams has bounced between third, fourth and fifth on the depth chart at running back, but he played significant snaps on special teams as a rookie (124) and again in 2022 (127). He may now get the chance to earn some playing time on offense, as the Bengals lost No. 2 back Samaje Perine to the Broncos this offseason and…read more
Published: Wed, May 10 at 6:44am by Rotowire.com
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Back with Bengals
Williams re-signed with the Bengals on a one-year contract Thursday.
Analysis: Williams closed out the 2022 season as Cincinnati's kick returner. He's likely to reprise that role in 2023 and could also see an uptick in usage on offense as a depth option in the backfield behind Joe Mixon and Chris Evans.
Published: Thu, Mar 16 at 10:43am by Rotowire.com
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Likely returning to Cincinnati
The Bengals plan to re-sign Williams on Wednesday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Williams suited up for each of Cincinnati's final seven regular-season games and all three playoff matchups, but he operated primarily on special teams when Joe Mixon and Samaje Perine were healthy. Perine is expected to sign with Denver soon, so barring any additional moves, Williams could have an elevated role in 2023. Williams was selected by the Bengals in the sixth round of the 2019 Draft and has totaled 47 rushing attempts for 238 yards and secured eight of 10 targets for 64 receiving…read more
Published: Wed, Mar 15 at 9:03am by Rotowire.com
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Serves as return man Week 18
Williams played all 21 of his snaps on special teams Sunday in the Bengals' 27-16 win over the Ravens.
Analysis: Williams was active for the Bengals' final seven games of the regular season, but he didn't receive any touches on offense over the last three of those contests while Cincinnati had both of Joe Mixon and Samaje Perine available out of the backfield. The Texas A&M product has, however, overtaken Chris Evans as Cincinnati's kickoff returner. Williams brought back two kickoffs for 48 yards against Baltimore to bring his average up to 22.3 yards per runback over 16 attempts during the regular…read more
Published: Thu, Jan 12 at 9:34am by Rotowire.com
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Minimal offensive role
Williams had just one carry for three yards in Sunday's win over the Chiefs, playing 10 offensive snaps.
Analysis: Williams was still involved on special teams, returning two kicks for 27 yards, but he took a step back from the previous week when he was more involved against the Titans. If Joe Mixon (concussion) returns as expected this week, Williams might be relegated to special teams only duty.
Published: Mon, Dec 5 at 9:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Contributes in win
Williams had two carries for 18 yards and one reception for 16 yards in the Bengals' win over the Titans on Sunday.
Analysis: Williams is clearly behind both Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon (concussion) when both are healthy, but he's also clearly ahead of Chris Evans should the opportunity arise.
Published: Sun, Nov 27 at 2:22pm by Rotowire.com
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Set to fill depth role Week 12
Williams is expected to be active for Sunday's game against the Titans, James Rapien of SI.com reports.
Analysis: With lead back Joe Mixon (concussion) having been ruled out for the Week 12 contest, Williams and Chris Evans are poised to serve as depth options behind Samaje Perine, who is expected to step into the starting role. Perine will most likely dominate the snaps and touches out of the backfield, though perhaps not to the extent of Mixon, who played at least two-thirds of the Bengals' offensive plays in every game until Week 11, when he exited in the first half of a win over the Steelers after…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 25 at 10:32am by Rotowire.com
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Healthy scratch
Williams (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's season opener against the Steelers, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.
Analysis: Williams made the Bengals' initial 53-man roster, but he was let go a day later to make room for a trio of wavier claims. He then returned to the team after Cincinnati placed multiple players on injured reserve. However, he's a healthy scratch for Week 1 as the Bengals have opted to keep only three running backs on the active roster -- Joe Mixon, Samaje Perine and Chris Evans.
Published: Sun, Sep 11 at 8:51am by Rotowire.com
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Re-signs with Cincinnati
The Bengals re-signed Williams on Friday.
Analysis: Williams made the initial 53-man roster, but he was let go a day later to make room for a trio of waiver claims. However, he's now returned to the team after the Bengals placed Tycen Anderson and Isaiah Prince on IR. The 2019 sixth-round pick has appeared in 26 games over the past three years in Cincinnati, totaling 47 touches for 242 yards.
Published: Fri, Sep 2 at 11:04am by Rotowire.com
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Waived by Cincinnati
The Bengals waived Williams on Wednesday, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Williams made the initial 53-man roster, but he was let go Wednesday to make room for a trio of waiver claims. The 2019 sixth-round pick appeared in 26 games over three years with the Bengals, totaling 47 touches for 242 yards.
Published: Wed, Aug 31 at 1:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Solid showing in preseason finale
Williams rushed seven times for 22 yards and caught all four of his targets for 40 yards in Saturday's 16-7 preseason win over the Rams.
Analysis: Williams had a quiet preseason opener but came on over the next two games, racking up 93 scrimmage yards and a touchdown over those two contests. Whether that's enough to make the team remains to be seen, as Williams was used after Chris Evans in this one and remains blocked by Joe Mixon, Samaje Perine and Evans on the depth chart.
Published: Sat, Aug 27 at 7:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Used behind Evans
Williams rushed nine times for 28 yards and a touchdown while catching his only target for three yards in Sunday's 25-22 preseason loss to the Giants.
Analysis: Williams was the second Cincinnati running back to see the field after Chris Evans, who got the start with both Joe Mixon and Samaje Perine sitting out. Most of Williams' contributions came on the first drive of the second half, which the 2019 sixth-round pick capped with a one-yard rushing touchdown. Williams seems to be locked into the fourth spot on Cincinnati's running back depth chart, which leaves him squarely on the roster bubble.
Published: Sun, Aug 21 at 7:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Paces backfield in finale
Williams rushed nine times for 38 yards and brought in one of two targets for four yards in the Bengals' 21-16 loss to the Browns on Sunday.
Analysis: Williams got a chance for extended action with Joe Mixon (reserve/COVID-19) unavailable and Samaje Perine going unused in the finale. The third-year pro is unlikely to have any role in the Bengals' upcoming postseason run unless there are multiple injuries in front of him.
Published: Sun, Jan 9 at 5:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Signed to active roster
Williams was signed to the Bengals' active roster from the practice squad Saturday, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.
Analysis: Williams has been elevated from the practice squad on two occasions this season. However, he'll now join the roster on a more permanent basis, which could mean bad news for Chris Evans (ankle) from an injury perspective. When active, Williams has played primarily on special teams, but he does have six carries for 13 yards.
Published: Sat, Dec 4 at 1:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Reverts to practice squad
Williams reverted to the Bengals' practice squad Monday, per the NFL's official transaction log.
Analysis: Williams was called up to add depth to Cincinnati's running back group with Chris Evans (hamstring) unable to go Sunday against the Jets. Williams ultimately only played eight snaps, all on special teams. If Evans misses Week 9 against the Browns, Williams will look for another chance to play Sunday.
Published: Mon, Nov 1 at 6:37pm by Rotowire.com
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Joining active roster
Williams is being elevated to the Bengals' 53-man roster for Sunday's game against the Jets, Marisa Contipelli of the Bengals' official site reports.
Analysis: Williams gets the call with Chris Evans set to miss the game with a hamstring issue. The 24-year-old Williams is unlikely to see much work behind Joe Mixon and Samaje Perine.
Published: Sat, Oct 30 at 11:54am by Rotowire.com
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Reverts to practice squad
Williams reverted to the Bengals' practice squad Monday, per the NFL's official transaction log.
Analysis: Samaje Perine (COVID-19) was unavailable for Sunday's contest, so Williams was elevated from the practice squad and carried six times for 13 yards behind Joe Mixon. Williams could be promoted again Week 7 if Perine remains sidelined, though Chris Evans would likely continue to work as Cincinnati's top backup at tailback.
Published: Mon, Oct 18 at 4:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Moves to active roster
Williams has been elevated from the practice squad ahead of Sunday's game against the Lions.
Analysis: Williams will take over for Samaje Perine, who will not be activated off the reserve/COVID-19 list in time for Sunday's contest. The 23-year-old made a couple of brief appearances last season when Joe Mixon was sidelined, most notably tallying a 12-carry, three-catch effort as the de-facto starter in Week 14 against the Cowboys. The move essentially guarantees Mixon will be expected to handle his full workload, an important distinction considering he's currently listed as questionable with a…read more
Published: Sat, Oct 16 at 10:11am by Rotowire.com
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Doesn't make 53-man roster
Williams was waived by the Bengals on Tuesday.
Analysis: The 2019 sixth-round pick recorded 157 yards on 26 carries and 30 yards on five receptions last season. Samaje Perine and Chris Evans will back up Joe Mixon to start the year.
Published: Tue, Aug 31 at 6:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Paces backfield in loss
Williams (hamstring) rushed nine times for 44 yards, brought in both targets for three yards and returned one kickoff for 23 yards in the Bengals' 29-26 preseason loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.
Analysis: Williams needed to get out on the field Sunday to avoid missing the entirety of preseason and make a final case for a roster spot, and all told he did well with the opportunity. The third-year pro was solid in 10 games last season, averaging 6.0 yards per carry on his 26 rushes and adding five receptions. Given his productive performance Sunday, Williams may have assured himself a roster spot, but rookie sixth-round pick Chris Evans, arguably Williams' biggest competition for the No. 3 running…read more
Published: Sun, Aug 29 at 5:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't suit up against Washington
Williams (hamstring) will not face Washington during Friday's exhibition matchup, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Williams will miss his second straight preseason game due to a hamstring injury, making Aug. 29's match against the Dolphins his next chance to suit up. The 2019 sixth-round pick has reportedly put together a strong offseason, but he's facing competition from Samaje Perine, Chris Evans, Jacques Patrick and Pooka Williams for a roster spot.
Published: Wed, Aug 18 at 10:35am by Rotowire.com
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Injures hammy, out Saturday
Williams injured his hamstring Thursday and won't be available for Saturday's preseason game against Tampa Bay, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The 2019 sixth-round pick reportedly is having a nice summer after struggling with injuries the past two years, but even if he gets healthy in a hurry, Williams will need to compete for a roster spot and backup work. Samaje Perine, Chris Evans, Jacques Patrick and Pooka Williams are the other backfield options behind Joe Mixon, with Perine and Evans seemingly the chief competition for Trayveon Williams.
Published: Sat, Aug 14 at 3:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Infrequently employed
Williams finished the 2020 season with 26 carries for 157 yards, including four carries for 74 yards in the season finale against the Ravens.
Analysis: Williams broke off a 55-yard run in the finale, but, despite the big run, he got very little work for the remainder of the game. Williams will be entering his third season in the NFL with little game action. With Joe Mixon signed long-term, there's not a lot of hope for Williams to earn a significant role with the Bengals.
Published: Wed, Jan 13 at 11:03pm by Rotowire.com
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Rushes twice in win
Williams rushed twice for six yards in Sunday's 37-31 win over the Texans.
Analysis: Williams played just six of 76 snaps, serving as the clear No. 3 running back. Meanwhile, Giovani Bernard posted 131 yards from scrimmage, while Samaje Perine recorded 136 total yards and two scores. Williams likely will be the odd man out in the season finale against Baltimore, which boasts a much tougher run defense.
Published: Mon, Dec 28 at 12:37pm by Rotowire.com
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Gains role in backfield
Williams carried the ball 12 times for 49 yards in Week 14 against the Cowboys. He added three receptions for 14 yards.
Analysis: Williams took over as the Bengals' lead back after Giovani Bernard fumbled on the opening drive. Williams was fairly effective on the team's subsequent possession, gaining 22 combined yards between receptions and carries. However, he fumbled the ball deep in Dallas territory and was subsequently benched for the rest of the first quarter. After re-entering the contest, Williams managed to lead the team with 12 carries and could see an increased role in Week 15 against the Steelers if Joe Mixon…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 13 at 3:53pm by Rotowire.com
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No offensive snaps in loss
Williams didn't play an offensive snap in Sunday's 19-7 loss to the Dolphins.
Analysis: Giovani Bernard continues to lead the Bengals' backfield, while Samaje Perine operates as the clear No. 2 running back. Williams hasn't gained footing as a consistent contributor; he's played just 10 snaps on offense over the last four weeks.
Published: Tue, Dec 8 at 1:05pm by Rotowire.com
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One carry, one catch
Williams played five offensive snaps Sunday in the Bengals' loss to the Giants, catching a pass for 13 yards and running once while losing two yards.
Analysis: The carry was one more than fellow backup Samaji Perine received, with Giovani Bernard getting the lion's share of work. It's not at all clear the Bengals are interested in seeing more from him the rest of the way.
Published: Mon, Nov 30 at 10:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Exclusively plays special teams
Williams played zero offensive snaps during Sunday's 20-9 loss to Washington.
Analysis: The 23-year-old received the first carries of his career last week against the Steelers (five rushes for 22 yards), but it was only a small burst of playing time in a blowout. Williams could step into a bigger offensive role with Samaje Perine while href="https://www.rotowire.com/football/player.php?id=11707">Joe Mixon (foot) is on injured reserve and Giovani Bernard recovers from a concussion..
Published: Tue, Nov 24 at 3:41pm by Rotowire.com
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First NFL carries
Williams had his first NFL carries in the waning moments of the Bengals' loss to the Steelers on Sunday, rushing five times for 22 yards.
Analysis: The game was well out of reach when Williams got his carries in the fourth quarter, helping the Bengals tack on a Sad Field Goal at the end of the game. He received seven special-teams snaps in addition to his five carries.
Published: Mon, Nov 16 at 6:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Special teams only
Williams was active for the first time this season Sunday against the Browns, but he only saw action on two special-teams snaps.
Analysis: Williams is in his second year with the Bengals, but he has yet to record his first NFL regular-season carry. Even though the Bengals are 1-5-1 that still may not happen -- after all, they didn't see fit to give him that chance last year as they were playing out the string.
Published: Mon, Oct 26 at 11:20pm by Rotowire.com
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Set for 2020 debut
Williams is expected to be active against the Browns on Sunday with Joe Mixon (foot) ruled out, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Williams has been a healthy scratch through the first six games of the season, but the Bengals now finally have a need to call upon the 2019 sixth-round pick's talents. Giovani Bernard and Samaje Perine both appear to be operating ahead of Williams in the Bengals' backfield pecking order, however. The second-year pro is still looking to log his first NFL carry.
Published: Fri, Oct 23 at 9:16am by Rotowire.com
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Out of RB rotation in early going
Williams did not suit up during Sunday's 23-23 tie against the Eagles.
Analysis: The 2019 sixth-round pick has yet to make an appearance on the active roster this season, though he did dress for 11 games as a rookie. Williams remains in search of his first NFL carry after running for more than 3,600 yards with 35 total touchdowns during his collegiate career at Texas A&M. Samaje Perine has so far served as the No. 3 running back for Cincinnati this season, but he has logged 61 special-teams snaps to only one offensive snap.
Published: Tue, Sep 29 at 6:14pm by Rotowire.com
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No chance to run as a rookie
Williams appeared in 11 regular-season games with the Bengals in 2019 but did not record a single carry.
Analysis: Williams missed the first two games of his rookie season due to a foot injury, and he was limited to special teams upon returning to action. Cincinnati's backfield simply didn't leave the 22-year-old any room for opportunity behind Joe Mixon, as Giovani Bernard cleaned up the change-of-pace reps. The Texas A&M product isn't likely to carry much, if any, fantasy value to begin the 2020 season.
Published: Fri, Jan 24 at 8:30am by Rotowire.com
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