Green Bay Packers: 3 Free Agent LBs Worth Targeting
By Paul Bretl
Avery Williamson
A fifth-round pick by the Tennessee Titans in 2014, Williamson appeared in 63 out of a possible 64 games from 2014 to 2017. During that stretch, he would tally 376 tackles, including 20 for a loss, along with 11.5 sacks, 55 pressures, and two interceptions. Williamson then spent 2018 with the New York Jets, recording 120 tackles, three sacks, 13 pressures, and an interception.
He would, unfortunately, miss all of 2019 with an injury and then split the 2020 season between New York and Pittsburgh. Williamson was much more effective with the Steelers, but for the season posted four pressures, one sack, and 111 tackles.
As you can see, Williamson is a tackling machine and would provide the Green Bay Packers with help against the run and added depth. This reliability as a tackler can’t be overlooked as in the Joe Barry defense, the linebackers and safeties play an important role in stopping the run.
However, Williamson struggles in coverage. For his career, he has allowed a completion rate of 82 percent at 11.5 yards per catch and 19 touchdowns. To truly get the most out of him, he is someone who will only be on the field in obvious running situations.