The Patriots added more depth to their running back position.
On Wednesday, the team signed veteran running back and special teamer Trayveon Williams. The 28-year-old back spent the last six NFL seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. To make room on the 90-man roster, the Patriots subsequently released defensive tackle Eric Johnson.
Williams appeared in every game for the Bengals over the last two seasons. However, most of his contributions came as a core special teamer. Last year, Williams played 10 snaps on offense compared to 253 snaps on special teams. In 2023, Williams had a bigger role in Cincinnati playing 14.3% (156) of the offensive snaps.
He also played 294 special teams snaps that year. In six seasons, Williams has rushed for 307 yards to go with 15 catches for 74 yards. On special teams, Williams has 14 career tackles.
Williams also has experience as a kick returner. He’s returned 33 kickoffs for 743 yards with a 22.5 average.
Williams will join a revamped running back room that includes Rhamondre Stevenson, Treveyon Henderson, Antonio Gibson, Terrell Jennings, Lan Larison, and fullback Brock Lame.
Johnson was claimed off waivers by the Patriots last summer after cut-down day. The defensive tackle played 11 games in New England, making 17 tackles.
The Patriots have added several new defensive tackles this offseason with a strong-looking depth chart – Christian Barmore, Milton Williams, Khyiris Tonga, Joshua Farmer, Jeremiah Pharms, Jacquelin Roy, Isaiah Iton, and Jahvaree Ritzie.