Dolphins RB Damien Williams is ready to make an impact in year two
Most people know that the Miami Dolphins' primary running back is Lamar Miller. Not everyone knows the players behind him on the depth chart, though.
Second-year tailback Damien Williams has worked his way from an undrafted rookie last season to Miller's backup this year. He's arguably been Miami's top running back with Miller seeing limited action, and he's taken advantage of each opportunity.
Against the Carolina Panthers in Miami's second preseason game, Williams rushed for 14 yards and a touchdown, while also adding 11 yards and another touchdown through the air. Those numbers aren't eye-popping, but he's been effective in the passing game as well as in pass protection.
"I’m just doing my job," Williams said, via Alain Poupart of MiamiDolphins.com. "Whatever coaches ask me to do I’m going out there and executing."
This offseason has proven to be much different in Williams' eyes, given the fact that last year he was fighting for a roster spot. Now, he's fighting to be Miller's backup -- a battle which he's all but won.
"Last year I was rookie," he said. "It is kind of hard trying to catch up to game speed with guys who have been in the league five-plus years. This is going into my second year. I just have to get experience."
In addition to gaining experience in an NFL offense, Williams is working on improving his game off the field. Watching game film and analyzing defenses is a big part of being a successful running back, which is apparent to Williams.
"I would say studying more and learning defensive fronts a little bit more," Williams said. "Basically getting more reps, kind of just getting more reps in practice, visual reps. Whatever plays that I’m running, kind of see how Coach wants it to be done. So I kind of work on being a great visual person."
Williams is competing with LaMichael James and injured rookie Jay Ajayi for the No. 2 running back spot, which he's likely taken a strong hold of. There are still two preseason games left, but it doesn't appear as though Williams will surrender his role.
(h/t MiamiDolphins.com)
