Why the Atlanta Falcons moved Avery Williams to the offense

Avery Williams was really an underrated pick for the Atlanta Falcons during the 2021 NFL Draft. Most people view a sixth-round draft pick as a player who will have to fight for a roster spot and likely receive no playing time, but that was not the case for the former 183rd overall pick.

Calling him a corner almost does a disservice to him, he is more of a do-it-all special teamer and he was quietly one of the best returners in the league last year. While he got a multitude of snaps at corner for the Falcons during his rookie year, he will now be switching to the offensive side of the ball.

Here is why the Falcons are moving Avery Williams to RB

First of all, we have got to credit Avery for being willing to do whatever the coaching staff asks of him. He lined up all over special teams, was the team’s main punt and kick returner, and even got a significant number of snaps on defense.

So why did Atlanta switch his position?

The first answer to this question is that he likely would have been buried on the depth chart. He did play a decent amount of snaps as a slot corner last year, more than he should have, but injuries screw up most plans. In those limited snaps, he did not play too well and it is obvious that his size limits how effective he can be as a corner in the NFL.

Over the offseason, the Falcons have made it a goal to fortify their depth at corner so they do not end up in the same position as they were last year following Isaiah Oliver’s injury. They signed Casey Hayward, Teez Tabor, and resigned Isaiah Oliver, to help solidify the group.

Avery Williams will bring a skill set to the Falcons running back room that they did not have before—a smaller runner who is quick and has breakaway speed.

Williams excelled as a punt and kick returner last year, as it best suits his talent. Playing running back can be very similar to being a returner, he will be able to get the ball, scan the field, find a crease, and hit it as he tries to find the end zone.

It should be exciting to see him develop into being a potential playmaker on the offense. Moving him to the offense was the best decision for his career and the team, and should maximize his talents and playing time.