Quincy Williams is going into his second year with the New York Jets. He was claimed by the Jets through waivers shortly before the start of last season. Williams is 25, turning 26 years old at the end of August, and entering his fourth year in the NFL. The key with Williams in 2022 will be consistency as the Jets defense needs him in order to take a step in the right direction.
Brief review of 2021:
Considering Williams was added right before the 2021 season started, and he played significant reps right away, he did some good things. His blazing speed, physicality as a tackler, and overall athleticism were all on display. He had some great moments but overall was up and down, especially tackling. Ultimately though, Williams did prove enough in 2021 to have a role for the Jets this year.
Skill set:
Williams has a ton of speed (4.59 40-yard dash) and range to cover ground, whether it be getting into the backfield in a hurry or operating sideline to sideline. As shown by his nine tackles for loss last year, Williams can operate north and south to make a play on a skill position player in the backfield with his speed in a blur. He can generate pressure on the quarterback as well. Overall, Williams can move with ease on the field as an explosive athlete. At the point as a tackler, Williams can make his presence felt as a physical linebacker.
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Projected role with the New York Jets:
As of now, Williams is the Jets clear-cut second linebacker, starting alongside C.J. Mosley. The rest of the Jets’ current group of linebackers is filled with unknowns. Williams does provide this group with the best speed and athletic ability. The Jets seem to like Williams and the expectation at the moment is that he will have an integral role as a three-down player for this group.
2022 stat projection:
Williams should have another season with roughly 100 tackles. He should build on his two-sack season from 2021 and hopefully record three or four. If Williams can total around his tackle for loss amount from last year of nine or get even more, that would be great. In terms of creating turnovers, Williams had three forced fumbles in 2021. If he could give the unit another two or three this season, that would be good. Lastly, if he can replicate his five passes defended from last year or, better yet, record even more, that would be awesome for his development as still a fairly inexperienced player.
Final preview thoughts:
Now, having a full offseason with the Jets should have Williams further along mentally. He is a young player with the physical and athletic traits to make a jump. Consistency is the main point of emphasis for Williams to live up to his potential. If he can routinely be more sound with his pursuit angles and tackling technique, Williams can improve. The Jets defense needs all the help that it can get after last year’s struggles. Williams is one of the players that can give this unit the boost it needs.