49ers preseason: 5 players to watch in Week 2

Running Back Joe Williams

While running back Joe Williams is a lock to be on the final roster to start the season, his preseason showing against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 1 opened some eyes for fans who may have not have seen him during his time at Utah.

With Carlos Hyde seemingly reinvigorated and poised for a big year, and free-agent Tim Hightower a presumptive complimentary back, Williams, UDFA Matt Breida and Raheem Mostert will be vying for roster spots and playing time this summer.

And while Breida and Mostert both looked solid in their time on the field against the Chiefs, Williams stood out. He just looked faster than everyone else out on the field.

That said, he was also the third back off the bench. And while he carried seven times for 60 yards, he had an issue with a fumbled ball that he was able to pick up and gain 11 yards. Williams has had some issues in camp with ball security, and that can be the kiss of death regardless of how well you run the ball.

If Williams is consistent and plays well against the Broncos on Saturday, he could begin to push Hightower for the backup role behind Hyde.

And with Hyde’s injury history and physical running style, the backup could very well need to step into the starting role should Hyde miss time.