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Will the Eagles bring back Cary Williams in 2015? According to the much-maligned Philadelphia corner, he's pretty indifferent about it.
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"If I'm back, great. If not, great," Williams said following the Eagles' 34-26 victory over the New York Giants.
Williams, among Philadelphia's other defensive backs, were often torched by opposing wide receivers all season long. Williams admitted the game plan was for him to shadow Odell Beckham Jr. all game long but he couldn't do it because he was "winded." Of course, this isn't the first time Williams has complained about his (lack of) conditioning.
Poor performances from Philadelphia's cornerbacks against the New York Giants' wide receivers was just another reminder that the Eagles need to upgrade their secondary. Part of the overhaul might include releasing Williams. The veteran cornerback, who recently turned 30, is valued at a $8,166,668 cap number in 2015. The Eagles can release Williams in the offseason for a savings of $6,500,000.
Bradley Fletcher could very well be gone as well. Fletcher, who was inactive against the Giants, is scheduled to be a free agent following the season. Given his struggles, it would be a surprise to see the Eagles bring him back.
Outside of Fletcher and Williams, the Eagles have the following cornerbacks under contract: Nolan Carroll II, Brandon Boykin, and Jaylen Watkins. Carroll filled in for Fletcher on the outside and was up and down. Boykin also had an up and down season following an impressive 2013 campaign. The Eagles refuse to give Boykin a chance on the outside and continue to use him exclusively in their nickel package. Watkins, a fourth round pick from the 2014 NFL Draft, received significant playing time against New York. He broke up a pass intended for Odell Beckham Jr. before later falling down in coverage of the talented rookie.
The Eagles will have their work cut out for them this offseason considering they might need two new starters at cornerback and potentially a new safety (Nate Allen will be a free agent) next to Malcolm Jenkins as well.