What It Means:

Williams left in the first half on Monday night and never returned. It sounds like he will miss at least Week 3 versus the Green Bay Packers, which sets up Tony Jones and third-round rookie Kendre Miller as the Saints' primary backs. Jones figures to be the primary runner, but Miller should have an opportunity to make a strong first impression after missing the first two games with a hamstring injury. Taysom Hill could also see more running work without Williams in the backfield. Alvin Kamara will be eligible to return from suspension in Week 4, so Williams will have a reduced role once he returns.

Williams played 49-of-65 offensive snaps and handled 20-of-21 running back opportunities in the opener, so his absence leaves a notable void in the backfield. Jones out-carried Hill 12-9 in Week 2 and they were both targeted twice. The Packers’ run defense ranks fourth-worst through two weeks in numberFire’s opponent-adjusted NEP model.