Jacksonville Jaguars Release CB Darious Williams, Opening Potential Reunion with Los Angeles Rams
ICARO Media Group
In a move to clear cap space ahead of free agency next week, the Jacksonville Jaguars have decided to release cornerback Darious Williams, according to a report by Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz. Williams had an $11.5 million hit against Jacksonville's cap for the 2024 season.
Williams, who spent four seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, became a full-time starter in 2020 when the team transitioned to the Brandon Staley defense. He played a crucial role as the starting corner during the Rams' Super Bowl LVI victory. Following the championship, the Jaguars signed Williams in free agency, sealing a three-year, $39 million deal.
Despite being let go by the Jaguars, Williams remains at the top of his game. In 2023, he played over 1,000 snaps and earned an impressive grade of 85.3 from Pro Football Focus (PFF), tying with Derek Stingley for the fifth-highest cover corner of the year. Only DaRon Bland, Charvarius Ward, Sauce Gardner, and Jaylon Johnson ranked ahead of him.
With the Rams in need of cornerback help, a potential reunion with Williams seems plausible. The departure of veteran Ahkello Witherspoon, who is set to hit free agency, leaves a void in the secondary. While Derion Kendrick and Cobie Durant struggled to make progress in their second seasons, it's worth noting that a lack of consistent pass rush may have put them in disadvantageous situations.
Williams could bring both veteran leadership and familiarity with the Rams' defensive scheme. However, the deciding factor may ultimately come down to his price tag and whether it aligns with the team's financial plans.
One concern pertaining to the Rams' cornerback group, which includes Durant and Kendrick, is the lack of size. Williams, listed at only 5'9" and 187 lbs, joins Durant and Kendrick, who are listed at 5'11" (180 lbs) and 6'0" (190 lbs), respectively. The team did add the smaller-sized Tre Tomlinson in the sixth round of last year's draft, standing at 5'8" and 180 lbs.
If the Rams decide to pursue a veteran cornerback in free agency, it might be advantageous for them to target a player with more stature. Alternatively, they could also explore the possibility of drafting a cornerback with size early if Kendrick, Durant, or Tomlinson do not fit into their future plans.
As the free agent market opens next week, the question remains whether the Rams will entertain the idea of a reunion with Darious Williams, given his availability and their need for additional talent in the secondary.