Jonathan Williams (running back, born 1988) facts for kids
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| Born: | August 21, 1988 Smithfield, North Carolina, U.S. |
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| Career information | |
| CFL status | International |
| Position(s) | RB |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) |
| Weight | 210 lb (95 kg) |
| College | East Carolina |
| High school | J.H. Rose (Greenville, North Carolina) |
| Career history | |
| As player | |
| 2011 | Cincinnati Bengals* |
| 2013 | Calgary Stampeders |
| 2014 | Ottawa Redblacks |
| *Offseason or practice squad only | |
| Career stats | |
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Jonathan Edward Williams (born August 21, 1988) is a former professional football player from the United States. He played as a running back in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Before becoming a pro, he played college football at East Carolina University. He also played for teams like the Cincinnati Bengals, Calgary Stampeders, and Ottawa Redblacks.
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Growing Up and High School Football
Jonathan Williams played high school football for the Junius H. Rose High School Rampants. He was a big part of their success! His team won two state championships in a row, going undefeated both years (16-0 seasons). This happened when he was a junior and a senior.
Because of his great playing, he earned special awards in 2005 and 2006. He was also chosen as a third-team All-America player by EA Sports in his senior year.
College Football Career
Jonathan Williams played college football for the East Carolina Pirates. He was on their team from 2007 to 2010. During his time in college, he ran for a total of 1,415 yards. He also scored 16 touchdowns by running the ball into the end zone.
Professional Football Journey
Playing for the Cincinnati Bengals
After college, Jonathan Williams hoped to join the National Football League (NFL). He was not chosen by any team in the 2011 NFL draft. This means he was "undrafted." However, the Cincinnati Bengals still signed him to their team on July 28, 2011. He was with them for a short time before being released on August 23, 2011.
Time with the Calgary Stampeders
Jonathan Williams then moved to the Canadian Football League (CFL). He signed with the Calgary Stampeders on June 23, 2013. He played with them for a few months before being released on October 2, 2013.
Joining the Ottawa Redblacks
On September 15, 2014, Williams joined the Ottawa Redblacks. He was first added to their practice team. A practice team is where players train with the main team but don't play in games yet. On September 25, 2014, he was moved to the active roster. This meant he could now play in real games.
Williams had a fantastic game during Week 15 of the 2014 CFL season. He ran for 180 yards and scored two touchdowns! He also caught two passes for 49 yards. Because of his amazing performance, he was named the CFL Offensive Player of the Week. After the 2014 season, Jonathan Williams became a free agent. This means he was free to sign with any team he wanted.
