The Browns are adding depth to their backfield, signing running back Trayveon Williams off the Chargers’ practice squad and onto their active roster - a move that brings a familiar name back into the AFC North fold.
Williams, now 28, has been navigating the league since being drafted in the sixth round by the Bengals out of Texas A&M back in 2019. While he’s never been a featured back, he’s carved out a role as a reliable depth option and special teams contributor - the kind of player coaches trust to stay ready, even if the stat sheet doesn’t show it.
After finishing out his rookie contract in Cincinnati, Williams re-upped with the Bengals on a one-year deal in 2022. The team brought him back again for 2023 and 2024, but he didn’t make it out of camp last season. He briefly landed in Cleveland during the preseason but was released before the regular season began.
This year, he’s been bouncing on and off the Chargers’ practice squad, a common path for veterans who still have enough in the tank to contribute but are waiting for the right opportunity. That opportunity has now come in Cleveland.
Williams appeared in all 17 games for the Bengals in 2024, though his primary role was on special teams. That experience could be valuable for the Browns, especially as they look to reinforce that unit heading into the final stretch of the season.
In limited action with the Chargers this year, Williams has logged three carries for minus one yard and one reception for no gain across three games. Those numbers don’t jump off the page, but the Browns aren’t bringing him in to be a game-breaker - they’re looking for a seasoned pro who knows how to prepare, can step in when needed, and won’t be overwhelmed by the moment.
For Cleveland, this is a low-risk, potentially high-reward signing. With injuries and attrition always a factor late in the season, having a veteran like Williams on hand adds insurance - and perhaps a little spark - as the Browns continue their playoff push.