Cadillac Williams on the Mindset of a Running Back: ‘You’ve Got to Be a Little Throwed Off’
Former NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, Cadillac Williams, takes on a new challenge as the running-backs coach for the Las Vegas Raiders. Learn about his journey from star player to coach and his insights into the mindset required for success in football.
@ReadWhatRickWrote 
Carnell “Cadillac” Williams, renowned for his achievements at Etowah High School and Auburn University, has carved out an impressive career in football. After being named Alabama’s Mr. Football in 2000 and setting a school record at Auburn with 3,831 rushing yards and numerous touchdowns, Williams made his NFL debut with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the fifth pick in the 2005 draft.
Reflecting on his rookie experience, Williams recalls his awe at joining the Buccaneers’ locker room. “Being around legends like coach Jon Gruden, Derrick Brooks, Simeon Rice, and Ronde Barber was surreal,” he said. “I was starstruck and realized, ‘I’m really in the NFL now.’”
Williams quickly made his mark, earning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award in 2005 after rushing for 1,178 yards. Now back in the league as the running-backs coach for the Las Vegas Raiders, Williams is focused on continuing his legacy. “The Raiders are one of the NFL’s most storied franchises,” Williams noted. “With their rich history and success, it’s an honor to contribute to such a prestigious team.”
Before rejoining the NFL, Williams spent five seasons as Auburn’s running-backs coach, where he also served as interim head coach for the final four games of the 2022 season. Although Auburn hired Hugh Freeze as their head coach, Williams returned to his coaching role and made a significant impact.
As he steps into his new role with the Raiders, Williams is tasked with guiding a running-back group transitioning from Josh Jacobs, the former leading rusher who departed for the Green Bay Packers. Williams is instilling qualities like toughness and consistency in his players. “To play running back, you’ve got to be a bit 'throwed off,'” he said. “It’s a position where you face constant challenges and physicality. I’m excited about the potential of our backs to make a difference.”
Among his players are Zamir White, who’s set to take on a larger role this season, and Alexander Mattison, a free-agent addition with a solid track record. Williams is also thrilled to have veteran Ameer Abdullah, a former Alabama standout with a decade of NFL experience. “Ameer brings invaluable experience and leadership,” Williams said. “His journey offers great lessons for our younger players.”
The Raiders will showcase their progress in their upcoming preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys at Allegiant Stadium. The game kicks off at 9 p.m. CDT on Saturday and will be broadcast on the NFL Network.
