DeAngelo Williams to Retire from Pro Wrestling After Slammiversary Debut

NFL running back DeAngelo Williams made his pro wrestling debut at Global Force Wrestling Slammiversary, but he told Adam Schefter that it was also his last appearance in the ring. 

"It was my debut and my retirement all at the same time," he told Schefter during his podcast (h/t Ryan Satin of Pro Wrestling Sheet), explaining that he participated in the event in honor of his late uncle.

Williams paired with Moose in a tag team matchup against Eli Drake and Chris Adonis, finishing the match by pinning Adonis following a frog splash onto a table. Terrence Williams of ESPN.com broke down his performance in the ring:

"The only flaw in Williams' performance came when attempting that move and he slightly overshot the splash and the table did not break. Once the match was over, Moose pulled Eli Drake back in the ring and power-bombed him through the table. Williams showed an impressive repertoire of moves in what I would call the best performance we've ever seen from an athlete or celebrity participating in a pro wrestling match."

Now, however, Williams is ready to get back onto the football field, as he told Schefter (h/t Kevin Patra of NFL.com):

"I'm definitely playing football [this year]. I guess you could say I'm waiting on the phone call. I guess you could say that. I mean, not 'guess.' You can say that. I'm waiting on the phone call. With a GM, or head coach, or whoever decides they need my services. I'll be ready. You can rest assured of that. I work out every day. I keep in shape because I know once that phone call comes—when it comes, not if, but when it comes—then I'll be ready to step up and deliver because that's what they are asking of me when they place that phone call."

Williams remains a free agent after rushing for 343 yards and four touchdowns for the Pittsburgh Steelers last year, primarily as Le'Veon Bell's backup, though he did make four starts. He told Schefter he hasn't yet signed a contract because it would have prevented him from participating at Slammiversary, but he seems intent on playing in the NFL next season.

If a team is looking for a productive veteran backup heading into training camp, Williams is a solid option.