The New York Giants traded for New York Jets defensive lineman Leonard Williams in October with the hopes he could come in and solidify their defensive front.
Williams hasn’t had quite the impact the Giants expected (he still has no sacks) but he has made an impact. His presence has allowed fellow linemates Dalvin Tomlinson and Dexter Lawrence to up their games.
So, why was Williams, the Giants’ new key defensive disruptor, not on the field for the Eagles’ winning overtime drive on Monday night?
Williams, dealt from the Jets to Giants in exchange for a third-round pick in 2020 and a 2021 fifth-round pick, was having a quality game, despite receiving just 51 of 89 defensive snaps. He had five solo tackles, one tackle for loss and deflected a Carson Wentz pass. He also was called for a rougher-the-passer penalty.
Head coach Pat Shurmur, who looks more and more over-matched with each passing week, was asked about the decision to bench Williams at the most crucial part of the game.
“We had a rotation going and that’s basically it,” said Shurmur. “For whatever it’s worth, I felt like the interior defensive linemen were pretty disruptive, and we liked the rotation we had to keep them fresh throughout.”
And Williams isn’t part of that rotation? Your most experienced lineman who had been balling all game?
Nonsense. This sounds like another instance of in-game mismanagement by Shurmur and his staff. Is it possible they forgot that Williams was on the roster and just didn’t call his number?
That may sound silly, but keep in mind this defense has been caught with 12 men on the field which indicates the sideline is not a tight ship.
There also is the possibility the Giants could already be phasing Williams out after he told reporters last week that would be seeking a “top dollar” contract in free agency.
None of this makes sense starting with the trade for Williams, who will be a free agent in March unless the Giants ink him to an extension before free agency begins in March.
Many have been critical of the trade, which will cost the Giants two draft choices whether they re-sign Williams or not. He could have been had in free agency without surrendering any picks. A baffling move by the Giants that is getting more baffling by this latest development.
