DeAngelo Williams, the former first round pick of the Panthers, now enters this third NFL season this year. With this new season comes a new role for the electric running back.

For the past two seasons, Williams has been waiting for his chance to shine. Playing back-up to Deshaun Foster was not easy. It was obvious that he wanted to go out on the field and make some plays as a starter. However, the early role of back-up has helped Williams. He has learned the virtue of patience, something that is essential to have when running. He has also learned to not take his playing time for granted.

In the off-season, the Panthers found that it would be best to part with the dependable Deshaun Foster. In the draft, the Panthers were able to acquire a great and consistent runner in Jonathan Stewart, who fit the mold of a young Stephen Davis.

Now, DeAngelo Williams is the starter. It is his chance to show the coaches why they selected him in the first round. He still has some work to do, but he feels prepared overall. “I know that I have some improvements to make this off-season,” Williams said. “I need to get better at blocking and reading the holes.” This role will feature him the Panthers offense, which likes to have a reliable running game.

Williams will also have to play teacher to the young Jonathan Stewart. It was not long ago that DeShaun Foster was teaching Williams the tricks of the trade, and now Williams will have to pour that knowledge onto the Stewart.

Asked about the possibility of having to share playing time with Stewart, Williams had this to say: “Whether or not Stewart or I will start the game, we will both get about the same number of touches, more or less. Having both of us will keep the defense on its heels.” Having a great attitude like this will definitely promote camaraderie in the locker room.

DeAngelo Williams was solid last season in the back-up role. He carried the ball 144 times for 717 yards. He also had some key receptions during the season. The two running back system the Panthers will run will have both running backs seeing these kinds of numbers.

Down the road, I could see Jonathan Stewart being featured as the team’s number one running back, with DeAngelo coming in on passing downs and after the defense is tired. Stewart would pound the defense down, then Williams would come in and provide a spark. It will be an exciting tandem to watch.

Tags: deangelo williams, nfl season, panthers