49ers player stock watch halfway through 2018 preseason
By Peter Panacy
Running Back Joe Williams
Earlier in training camp, Joe Williams was listed as one of Niner Noise’s choices for 49ers players who have impressed the most so far.
San Francisco 49ers
Well, that was then. This is now.
Williams wasn’t much of a factor during San Francisco’s exhibition debut versus Dallas. And he was even less of one against Houston. A big indication the 49ers weren’t totally convinced Williams was exceeding expectations was the free-agent signing of 29-year-old veteran tailback Alfred Morris in the wake of injuries to top runners Jerick McKinnon (calf) and Matt Breida (shoulder).
Morris didn’t play against the Texans, however. Instead, the Niners gave second-year pro Jeremy McNichols the start. Not Williams — another indictment.
Williams did manage eight carries, though. Yet his efforts resulted in a mere 18 yards for 2.3 yards per attempt.
And that bobbled would-be catch for an interception? Not good either, especially considering ball security was one of his downfalls a year ago.
Right now, Williams shouldn’t plan on being on the 49ers roster come September.