In one of the best feel-good stories of the NFL preseason, former LSU running back Josh Williams has made the 53-man roster for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Williams started his college career as a walk-on for LSU back in 2019, and was a member of the scout team during LSU's historic National Championship season. He played with the Tigers through the 2024 season, and has now made an NFL roster.
After not hearing his name called in the 2025 NFL Draft, Williams signed with the Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in April. He put together a strong training camp and a pair of solid performances in Tampa Bay's preseason games. Williams rushed five times for 21 yards in Week 2 of the preseason against the Steelers. He then rushed eight times for 28 yards with a long of 11 yards in Week 3 against the Bills. He also made an impact on special teams, which the Buccaneers deemed worthy of a roster spot heading into the start of the regular season.
Feel-good stories on cutdown day: the Buccaneers had three undrafted free agents — RB Josh Williams, OT Benjamin Chukwuma and LB John Bullock — earn spots on their 53-man roster. Bullock was a former walk-on LB at Nebraska like Bucs GM Jason Licht.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 26, 2025
Josh Williams ready to begin rookie season with Tampa Bay Buccaneers
After beginning his time in Baton Rouge as a walk-on, Williams eventually earned a scholarship after preseason camp in 2020. He then blossomed into one of LSU's most reliable running backs, making a significant impact over the course of five seasons.
In his LSU career, Williams totaled 1,474 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on 314 carries. In addition to averaging 4.8 yards per carry, he also racked up 600 receiving yards and a receiving touchdown for the Tigers.
He was awarded the No. 18 jersey prior to the start of the 2024 season, which is given to the player who best portrays the traits of a champion, both on and off the field. Brian Kelly has spoken very highly of Williams on a number of occasions.
"He leads by setting a positive example in all that he does. He sets the foundation for the principles and standards of our program and serves as a great role model for our younger players."Brian Kelly
Williams and the Buccaneers begin their 2025 season on Sunday, Sept. 7 with a road tilt against the Atlanta Falcons. Other running backs on Tampa Bay's roster include Bucky Irving, Rachaad White, and Sean Tucker.