The NY Jets will have a decision to make on a number of pending free agents this offseason, one of whom is linebacker Quincy Williams. Williams started 15 games for the Jets in 2023 and, much like his younger brother, is in need of a new contract.
While the elder Williams won't command quite the same payday that his younger brother will, there will be teams interested in signing him. But Williams has made it clear that he would love to return to the Jets this offseason.
Williams told reporters on Monday that he "hopes" to re-sign with the Jets but that he also wants to be paid what he's worth. He preached the importance of loyalty while also insisting that he understands the NFL is a business at the end of the day.
Williams concluded by saying that he "loves the Jets" and that he "looks forward to being back here," if that situation arises. It's clear that Williams does want to re-sign with the Jets, but he also wants to be fairly compensated.
Should the NY Jets re-sign Quincy Williams this offseason?
A third-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Williams spent the first two years of his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but he never quite found a permanent home. It wasn't until he joined the Jets in 2021 that he carved out a regular role.
The Jets claimed Williams off waivers just prior to the start of the 2021 season reuniting him with his brother, Quinnen. He went on to start 13 games in his first year with the team, establishing himself as the team's primary starter alongside C.J. Mosley.
Williams remains one of the most volatile players on the Jets' roster. At times, his speed and athleticism shine through and he flashes All-Pro potential. He's a runaway train who either plows into the ball carrier at top speed or derails and crashes while grasping at air.
There are moments every game that make Williams look like one of the best linebackers in football, but it's his lack of consistency that continues to hold him back. Williams showed signs of improvement in 2022 and he was genuinely a more consistent player, but his weaknesses were still evident.
The Jets could and probably should look to upgrade at the linebacker position this offseason, and that could include replacing Williams either in free agency or the 2023 NFL Draft. Veteran Kwon Alexander is also a free agent, giving the Jets ample opportunity to reshape their linebacker corps.
Quincy Williams wants to re-sign with the Jets, and there might be some mutual interest, but nothing is guaranteed in the NFL. Here's to hoping that at least one of the Williams brothers receives a new contract this offseason.