Jamaal Williams Listed as Lions' Best Free-Agent Signing since 2018

Since the beginning of the current era of NFL free agency in 1993, the Detroit Lions have been known for striking out quite often on their free-agent signings.

In fact, you can make the argument that only a handful of Detroit's free-agent acquisitions have made a significant impact on the organization (i.e. Dre Bly, Reggie Bush, Matt Prater and Golden Tate).

Maybe the tide is turning for the Lions in that regard, though. Because the present regime, led by general manager Brad Holmes in the front office, did strike gold with the signing of running back Jamaal Williams during the 2021 free-agency period.

Since, Williams has become an emotional leader for Detroit, both on and off the field, and undoubtedly a fan favorite of the team's fanbase.

He's also been a productive member of the Lions' backfield. Just this past season, he rushed for 1,000 yards for the first time in his NFL career, and broke the franchise's single-season rushing touchdown record (17).

To no surprise, Williams was recently named by ESPN as Detroit's best free-agent signing since 2018.

As ESPN opined, "Williams enjoyed the best seasons of his career in 2021 and 2022 after signing with the Lions as an unrestricted free agent on a two-year, $6 million deal. After thriving in a complementary role for the Packers for his first four NFL seasons, Williams led the league in rushing touchdowns (17) this past year while rushing for 1,066 yards, the first 1,000-yard season in Detroit since Reggie Bush in 2013."

Additionally, the signing of tight end Jesse James -- to a four-year, $22.6 million contract -- as the worst free-agent deal made by the Lions since 2018.

"James signed a four-year, $22.6 million deal and was released after two seasons after failing to live up to that deal. He recorded just 30 receptions for 271 yards in those two seasons. In his first year, he went without a touchdown in a season for the first time in his career, which started in 2015."

Williams is an unrestricted free agent this offseason, and is expected to have teams other than Detroit vying for his services, such as the Carolina Panthers.

However, at this point, there appears to be a strong likelihood that Holmes & Co. will make re-signing the veteran back a top priority.

One thing is certain: Holmes would make a lot of Lions fans happy by inking Williams to a new contract.