BYU's Jamaal Williams drafted in the 4th round by Green Bay


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PROVO — When BYU star running back Jamaal Williams was dismissed from school prior to the 2015 season for Honor Code violations, his career could've taken a step back — or even ended, from BYU's standpoint.

But Williams, who first enrolled at BYU as a 17-year-old freshman, stayed true to the Cougars. Loyalty, he said, is important to him, and he returned for a 2016 campaign in which he became BYU's all-time leading rusher.

The Green Bay Packers noticed that loyalty, selecting Williams with a fourth-round pick, No. 134 overall of the 2017 NFL Draft.

“I stayed at BYU, because they were the first team to give me an offer," Williams said during a conference call with reporters. "Loyalty is a big deal for me, and I’m just grateful to the Packers. I’ll be loyal to them, too.”

Williams said the nature of his Honor Code violation was when he "had a girl in my room," but he didn't think twice about his suspension or returning to Provo for his senior year. Most NFL teams "just laughed" when they found out his troubles, he added.

“I was angry, but at the same time, but it’s your responsibility because you made the choice going to the school. They tell you the rules before you go there," Williams said.

“Honestly, it’s your responsibility to follow the honor code … and if you don’t, it’s your fault. My choices are on me.”

Green Bay director of college scouting Jon-Eric Sullivan said Williams' return to Provo after the violation was a major factor in the Packers' decision to select him in the fourth round.

"He could've gone anywhere he wanted as a transfer," Sullivan said. "The fact he came back (to BYU) probably tells you about his fortitude. I think that says something about the kid, and we thought it was an asset to his character."

Graphic composed by Josh Furlong, KSL.com
Graphic composed by Josh Furlong, KSL.com

Williams is the first running back from BYU to be drafted since Scott Phillips, who went to Seattle in the fourth round of the 1981 NFL draft, according to BYU sports information. Todd Christensen (2nd Round, 1978 draft to Dallas) and Pete Van Valkenburg (3rd Round, 1973 draft to New Orleans) are the only other BYU running backs to be drafted. Harvey Unga was a 2010 NFL supplemental draft pick, and fullback Fui Vakapuna went in the seventh round of the 2009 draft.

The Packers are looking to replace running back Eddie Lacy, who went to Seattle in the offseason after reportedly being out of shape with the Packers. Williams was the first offensive player selected by Green Bay, who previously drafted Wisconsin linebacker Vince Biegel, the son of former BYU star Rocky Biegel, in the fourth round.

Green Bay’s other draft picks were Washington cornerback Kevin King (No. 33), North Carolina State safety Josh Jones (61) and Auburn defensive tackle Montravius Adams. They'll join a defense that includes former Utah State standouts Marwin Evans and Kyler Fackrell, among others.

"He's built to last, he's durable, and he's a tough kid," Sullivan told Wisconsin media after the selection. "We're excited about him; we got a good football player. He complements the other guys here."

BYU coach Kalani Sitake congratulated Williams in a school news release.

“I’m excited for Jamaal and I know he is prepared to play at the next level,” Sitake said. “His style and abilities as a tough, decisive runner and good pass protector will translate extremely well to the NFL game. He can do it all and is a great person and teammate. I look forward to following his NFL career."

Fellow BYU alum Ziggy Ansah, who now plays for the Detroit Lions, mentioned Williams on Twitter with a little good-natured ribbing.

Williams departed BYU as the school record holder in rushing yards in a career, passing graduate assistant Harvey Unga on a 9-yard run during an overtime win against Mississippi State. He finished his senior seasons with 3,901 rushing yards, 35 touchdowns and just two fumbles lost — both in his senior season.

“I’m grateful to be here, for the fans and everything they’ve done, for the support they’ve given me, for everything I’ve been through,” Williams said after his final game at LaVell Edwards Stadium. “This place is one of a kind, and it has one-of-a-kind people that care about you and want to see you succeed.”

The 6-foot native of Fontana, California burst onto the scene as a 17-year-old freshman in 2012, when Williams ran for 775 yards and 12 touchdowns on 166 carries — without a lost fumble. His rise continued through a sophomore and junior season when he ran for a total of 1,751 yards despite missing six games as a junior due to injury.

After the season in 2014, though, Williams was preparing for the final year of his career when he withdrew from school for "personal reasons." He returned in 2016, alongside medical redshirt-senior Taysom Hill, and the duo helped BYU to a 9-4 record in the first season of head coach Kalani Sitake. Williams ranked fifth nationally in rushing yards per game and put up more than 100 rushing yards in six games.

“I came back mostly for my team,” Williams said after returning to BYU. “I wanted to show my teammates that I am down for them, that I”m loyal to them and that I know they will always have my back. I know they never judge me, take me for who I am, and love me for who I am.”

Williams was one of two BYU invitees to the NFL combine, joining fellow senior Harvey Langi. He returned to BYU in time for pro day, when he improved his speed with a 4.53 40-yard dash and added a 33-inch vertical leap.

Williams leaves BYU as one of the most beloved running backs of the modern era. Beside leading the team in rushing, he will be remembered for his jovial nature and pregame flair — as well as the times he helped lift his teammates, coaches, fans and others one and off the field.

Shortly after a tragic accident involving the daughter of running backs coach Reno Mahe, Williams put up 131 yards in BYU’s 28-10 win over Utah State and dedicated his performance to the Mahe family.

“Reno’s family, and the whole family is family,” Williams said at the time. “When they hurt, we hurt.

“I’m a real family man. When one of my family members hurt, I do whatever I can to help them out and let them know I feel the same thing that they feel.”

With a sociology degree in hand following BYU's commence ceremonies Thursday, Williams is ready to make a name for himself in the National Football League — and he believes the Packers are the perfect spot for him.

"I’ve never been so excited in my life," Williams said. "To have my family here to support me keeps me going.

“I’m ready to contribute to the team, and get some Ws.”

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