Ravens Sign Commanders Free Agency Target Marcus Williams
The Baltimore Ravens have agreed to terms with New Orleans Saints safety Marcus Williams on a five-year, $70 million contract. Williams was a name to watch for by the Washington Commanders entering free agency.
According to league reports, Washington is one of three teams expected to make a play for Williams at the start of the league tampering period on Monday. The Detroit Lions and New York Jets also are expected to be in the mix, but Baltimore was willing to cough up the dough.
Williams now is expected to make roughly $14 million a season. Washington now must pivot to a different direction at the free safety spot.
Williams, 25, has been one of the most consistent free safeties since arriving in New Orleans from Utah. He won't be overly physical in run support, but his coverage skills are top-notch. Williams has 15 interceptions in five seasons and he's missed only five games through his career.
Washington's secondary ranked 29th in pass coverage last season despite the additions of cornerbacks William Jackson III and rookie Benjamin St-Juste. Veteran Bobby McCain also signed a one-year deal and took reps both a free safety and nickel defender.
Commanders coach Ron Rivera said he would be interested in retaining McCain at the the right price. In his lone season, McCain recorded a career-best 63 tackles, nine pass breakups and four interceptions.
"The important thing’s going to be: Can we come up with a number that makes sense for everybody involved and how does that fit into the puzzle of putting our football team together?” Commanders general manager Martin Mayhew said at the NFL Combine.
Washington currently sits with just over $5 million in salary cap room. That number could expand if the team waives several players before signing anyone on March 16.
Free safety was a weak point last season for the Commanders. Williams fits the style of defense coordinator Jack Del Rio is looking to run. Now, Washington must settle for its second choice.
