One Saints offseason move has completely blown up in their face

The New Orleans Saints were aggressive this offseason. Particularly on offense, they went out and grabbed players who they thought would give them a brand new identity on that side of the ball.

The headline for that was quarterback Derek Carr. The main secondary addition was running back Jamaal Williams. 

Williams led the NFL in touchdowns last season for the Detroit Lions. He has not scored for New Orleans this season.

The veteran running back received a three-year, $12 million deal from the Saints in the offseason. It has $8 million in guarantees, so they could move off of him after next season. 

The Saints prepared for Alvin Kamara's suspension by adding Williams. They wanted a proven talent to start while he missed the first games of the year. He did have an impact in those games, but he was not efficient. That's been the case all season, unfortunately. 

Williams is averaging just 2.8 yards per carry. He's totaled just 147 rushing yards. Week 1 was his most productive week on the ground with 45 yards. Williams has caught just 9 receptions, too. 

Adding Williams seemed like an understandable choice at the time, but running back was never a major need in the offseason. Keep in mind that New Orleans also added third-round RB Kendre Miller in the draft. He has not produced, either.

Williams' only impact in the passing game has been on the blocking side. He has been a useful pass protector for New Orleans, but his role has seemingly taken Alvin Kamara off of the field on some meaningful third downs. That isn't the way to go if you're the Saints offense. 

Regardless, Williams' signing has not worked out how the Saints probably expected so far. That money could have been put towards a veteran pass rusher or depth offensive lineman.