The Pittsburgh Steelers made a move today that will sure up their backfield should their star RB Le’veon Bell ever get injured.
The Carolina Panthers released Williams on Tuesday, however the running back said back in February that he had been informed he would be released.
Williams was drafted No. 27 by Carolina in 2006 and has spent the last nine seasons there. He is the Panthers’ all-time leader in rushing yards (6,846) and rushing touchdowns (46).
The 31-year-old was limited to six games in 2014 because of a thigh injury, ankle injury and broken hand. He rushed for a career-low 219 yards on 62 carries, and his 3.5 yards per attempt was a career-low as well.
Williams will also serve as a valuable backup if/when Bell’s drug suspension ever comes down. John Clayton reported that Bell is likely to miss 2-4 games for getting caught smoking a blunt with LeGarette Blount back in August. With the running game being such a vital part of their offense, Steeler Nation was in need of a back who can have an impact in case of Bell’s absence.
It looks like the head coach and GM have found their guy. As for his age, have no fear Steeler fans – D.Will say’s he’s got plenty of life left in those legs. We’ll see if Father Time agrees with him.
Excited about signing with the @Steelers! Trust me when I say that I've got a LOT of gas left in the tank…. pic.twitter.com/ktRb3NUZ5D
— DeAngelo Williams (@DeAngeloRB) March 13, 2015
H/T SI