'Bittersweet': Twitter Reacts to Jamaal Williams Leaving Detroit Lions

Jamaal Williams quickly became a fan favorite.

Detroit Lions running back Jamaal Williams endeared himself to supporters of the team in a short period of time. 

After arriving in Motown in 2021, the talented running back showcased his infectious personality, even going viral in what turned out to be his final game donning a Lions uniform. 

The 27-year-old back took to social media, soon after news broke of his departure, to express gratitude for the last 24 months. 

"I just wanna say thank you to all the Detroit fans and everybody apart of the hidden village of the den I’ve grown a lot just from those two years and I appreciate every experience I had with every person I came to encounter while I was there," Williams posted. 

Supporters expressed surprise at his decision to sign with the Saints, as his fit in their offensive scheme was not immediately understood. 

Also, his average annual salary came in far less than many expected, especially after recording 17 rushing touchdowns in 2022. 

Given what he is now earning, many would have expected Williams to return to Detroit in 2023. But, the Lions' front office made the decision to sign Chicago Bears running David Montgomery instead, giving him a three-year, $18 million deal. 

Detroit offensive coordinator Ben Johnson expressed recently the coaching staff had the belief many of the rushing attempts in 2022 could have netted four to five additional yards, if tackles were shed. 

Montgomery comes to Motown having a solid reputation as a back that is able to elude tacklers. 

Supporters of the Lions took to social media to express their gratitude, disappointment and surprise Williams is no longer on the roster. 

Here is a sample of the reaction online to Williams' departure. 

Bitter sweet, but I'm happy for him.

— Renew Inspiration (@renew_lporter08) March 15, 2023

Pissed!!!! So pissed I’ve been dodging Twitter for fear of reading about yet another head scratching decision.

— 100%Naija (@PercentNaija) March 15, 2023

It’s a bummer he’s gone, but I think they upgraded. Bears fans loved Montgomery, so it’s likely Lions fans will too. I think he’s a better player than Williams. Also, the Lions were negotiating with Williams by all reports. Yet Williams didn’t sign. Brad moved on and did great.

— PBRDirty30's (@PBRDirty30s) March 15, 2023

He was everything the team stood for. Great locker room guy. Perfect for Dan Campbell. Big time bummer

— Michigan 🚀 Rocket (@TOL_Michigan) March 15, 2023

Yes, but respect Holmes if the price was too high. His energy on the field was great for the team. We have plenty on D, but seems like he was the main man on O for energy. Jaymo the likely one to replace that energy if he can stay on the field.

— T 🇺🇸 #USA (@tdtom89) March 15, 2023