When he first stormed onto the scene as a rookie in 2005 and rushed for over 1,110 yards, it appeared that running back Cadillac Williams was destined for a monster career. Well, things change in the NFL, particularly at the running back position where it’s so remarkably difficult to stay healthy. Williams played a full 16 game schedule last year for the first time in his career, but the Cadillac had been kept in the garage for the most part in ’07 and ’08 when he played a total of only 10 games.
Williams joined the airwaves in Tampa on Monday to talk about staying healthy again this year and putting up even better numbers now that Tampa’s offense appears like it will be more versatile and consistent in ‘10. Here’s an interesting quote or two from the Caddy during the interview on WDAE.
On how big it has been for him this offseason to not have to deal with injuries:
"Oh wow. That’s big. Coming from two knee injuries and rehabbing to get ready for the season not kinda knowing how my knee is going to react and not really working on my skills, but just really working to get back on the field and then this offseason a little more me. Working on my skills and at the same time continuing to strengthen my knees, but more or less focusing on my skill set. It’s a totally, totally different mindset."
On whether or not he feels like he can be the featured back in Tampa Bay:
"First of all, I think the opportunity is going be there for me to do it this year at an elite class. I think as a whole and as team we’re going to play much better. Coach Olsen came in with his scheme, we’ve been in it, we’re clicking like an offense, and I think we’re going to be much more competitive, we’re all gonna get more carries and things. I feel the more carries I have, the more I’m going to produce."