New York Jets: Potential Free Agent Cary Williams

Sep 15, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back

(44) is tackled by Philadelphia Eagles cornerback

(26) at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

The cornerback market is drying up, according to reports. Kareem Jackson is going back to Houston on a four-year deal. It sounds like Byron Maxwell is headed to the Eagles. These are two names that were up high on the Jets priority list. The Jets need a cornerback, maybe even two. So where do they look?

We are going to talk about one possibility this afternoon. We know there may be a reunion with Antonio Cromartie, though it sounds like Cro wants it more than the Jets do. So, Cary Williams becomes an option. He has met with the Jets, and is not off-limits until Tuesday, since he was released by the Eagles.

So, let’s take a look at former Eagles cornerback, Cary Williams.

Next: NFL Career

Dec 1, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles safety

(23) talks with cornerback Cary Williams (26) during the fourth quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles defeated the Cardinals 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Here are the career stats for Cary Williams to date:

Williams has averaged three interceptions over the last three seasons.  Though it was a bit of a down year in 2014 statistically, Williams did prove to be a competent corner, and certainly better than what the Jets had.

Williams also brings a wealth of experience, being in the league since 2008.

As I have said many times before, the pure stats are not always the best way to evaluate a cornerback.  We know that corners are simply not tested at all times, so two interceptions and nine passes defended may not be a huge year, but certainly a guy worth checking out.

Let’s see what going inside the numbers tells us.

Next: PFF Stats

Sep 28, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver

(15) catches the ball against Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cary Williams (26) during the fourth quarter at Levi

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The first thing that jumps out with Cary Williams is durability. Over the last three seasons, he has been on the field for over 1,100 snaps, leading the league at the position over the last two seasons in Philadelphia.

Williams was targeted a lot, 99 times to be exact. Williams was tied for ninth overall with the 99 targets. Of those targets, Williams opponents caught 56 passes, for a 56.6% completion percentage. Quarterbacks posted a passer rating of 89.5 throwing his way. Williams also allowed a reception every 11.8 snaps that he was the primary coverage guy.

Next: Financials

Oct 26, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cary Williams (26) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Eagles 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Cary Williams made some money last year. In 2014, Williams cost $8.1 million against the cap, a high number for a guy that produced the way he did last year. The Jets will have to pay to get this player into town. He has been in to visit with the Jets as we mentioned before, so there is interest there.

I don’t know that I would pay top-dollar for Cary Williams. His production of late has been mediocre. But, he has the experience and the size that Bowles needs to run his defense. I could see the Jets bringing this guy in here.

Next: Potential Free Agents: Chris Culliver

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