Heading into 2020, D.J. Williams’ offseason has looked a lot different from when he came in as a freshman in 2019.
In 2019, Williams was limited during fall camp by an offseason shoulder procedure. While this offseason might have brought new challenges due to COVID-19, Williams could still work out and train.
“Last year, I didn’t get that much time working out, so I feel like my body has gotten better,” Williams said.
The training sessions were not only just valuable in helping Williams prepare for the upcoming season; he also was able to work out and train with current NFL talent.
Williams worked out with wide receiver Sammy Watkins and defensive back Robert Jackson of the Kansas City Chiefs and Cleveland Browns, respectively.
Working out with current NFL talent and seeing their talent on display helped motivate Williams.
“Seeing those guy’s speed make you want to go harder every single time,” Williams said.
In his freshman year, Williams finished the season with 400 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 84 carries. As a true freshman, Williams may have had some nerves but is calm heading into year two.
“I’m just looking forward to calming down,” Williams said. “My freshman year was a lot of jitters and stuff like that, just calming down and just run the ball.”
Auburn has multiple running backs looking to carve out roles on the offense this year, but Williams doesn't see it as a competition as the group is just wanting to make each other better.
“Looking at the battle for the running back room, I don’t really see it as a battle because we’re all family here to make each other better,” Williams said. “I think we’re all valuable and everybody has their own style.”
Williams may have surprised many last season by helping step up while Boobee Whitlow was out and understands that all the running backs will need to be ready when called on this season.
“Everybody will have their chance just like I had mine, so you just have to get in there and do what you have to do," Williams said. "They’re pretty good, so they just have to keep going and improve in any way they can.”
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