Darrel Williams (RB, KC) - Week 1 Waiver Wire Pickups

4 years ago by Phil Clark

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ANALYSIS: After Damien Williams made his decision to opt-out of the 2020 regular season, former Raider DeAndre Washington was initially a popular choice to capture backup duties behind Clyde Edwards-Helaire. However, it was Darrel Williams who commandeered the most first-team reps during training camp and ultimately prevailed in competition with Washington and second-year back Darwin Thompson. Williams joined the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2018 and accumulated 308 total yards on 56 touches during 2019. He also provided a glimpse of his ability to function effectively in Andy Reid’s attack by accruing 109 total yards on 14 touches in week 3, including 62 yards on the ground.

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As the RB2 in KC, Williams now becomes a high-end insurance policy for Clyde Edwards-Helaire after DeAndre Washington was released. He could also play the role of TD vulture as the bigger back. He's not a big bruiser at 5'11" and 224 lbs but that gives him quite the advantage over Edwards-Helaire, who stands at 5'7" and 207 lbs. His role will more to frustrate CEH owners than anything but those in standard leagues might count on a score from Williams.

Taking on Kansas City’s RB2 responsibilities and sharing touches with CEH as the season launches has vaulted Williams into consideration among this week's most enticing targets on your waiver wire. He also provides a viable insurance policy for anyone who has secured Edwards-Helaire for their rosters.