Arizona Cardinals: 5 cut candidates, post draft
By Avery Duncan
Brandon Williams – CB
Though he’s proved to be a decent special-teamer, Williams’ departure seems long overdue. After the veteran additions of Robert Alford, Josh Shaw, and Tramaine Brock and the drafting of Byron Murphy at No. 33 overall, that cut may finally happen.
The 26-year-old has been healthy and available for the Cardinals but has failed to receive meaningful snaps for two different coaching staffs. He started his career with a solid rookie pre-season, but since, has not seen much time outside of special teams. In 2018, he saw his snap share decrease to 7.6% — the lowest of his career.
Williams, like the other one named Chad, was a third-round draft pick by Keim. He tested well in terms of athletic measurables but was a running back convert, yes, a running back convert. Most considered the pick to be a reach, and it was. I expect this cut to happen, but only if Keim is willing to swallow the big ol’ pride pill.
However, if anybody can get the best out of Williams it is newly hired defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. He made a name for himself as a defensive back coach in Houston and has groomed a lot of excellent cornerbacks. But, after three years of little to no success outside of special teams, saving that $740 thousand in 2019, per Over The Cap, may project as the better option.