New York Jets: Avery Williamson agrees to free agent contract, likely to replace Demario Davis
New York Jets add a linebacker, reportedly signing Avery Williamson to a contract.
The New York Jets kept up the hard work last night adding another member to the defense, this time along the front seven. It also likely spells the end of Demario Davis in New York, again. Take a look:
The #Jets are expected to sign #Titans FA LB Avery Williamson, source said. A perfect fit for a 3-4 ILB.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 14, 2018
So Mike Maccagnan continues to work on the defense and give Todd Bowles the squad he has always dreamed of. He plays the “mike” linebacker spot meaning Demario Davis would be without a role on this team. Seeing the writing on the wall, Davis tweeted this:
https://twitter.com/demario__davis/status/973745067356774401
The tweet was in response to Darryl Slater’s article about the move for Williamson. It shouldn’t be left unsaid, what a classy move by Davis? Instead of whining and complaining that the Jets are making a change he reached out to the player and wished him his best. It would be a wonderful league if all players handled things that way.
Williamson has been in the league four years, all with the Tennessee Titans. In 2015-2016 he led the Titans in tackles and is known as a top run defender. He will have the opportunity to be an every down player, but according to Rich Cimini, he had difficulty in pass defense. He also saw his snap percentage go down. In a way that feels like Demario Davis during his first stint with the team so it remains to be seen if Williamson is an upgrade or a parallel move.
The Jets do like Demario Davis but the two sides were far apart in coming to a new contract. He had a big year and will likely get paid by somebody and this is the right time (age 29) for him to get paid.
Next: Jets free agency tracker
The move is one that is not a downgrade. Clearly Avery Williamson spends much of his time around the football. His reputation is one of an excellent tackler. Much of this move will be determined on his ability to perform on passing downs and his ability to lead this defense. As the “mike” linebacker he has to call plays and take control of the group.
If he can do this, Avery Williamson will be an upgrade. If he can’t, not so much.