The Importance Of A Healthy Leonard Williams For Giants
Leonard Williams, a veteran presence on the New York Giants‘ defensive line, has persevered through injury this season.
Early in the year, he missed three games due to a knee injury.
Now, he is listed as out with a neck injury he has dealt with for the last couple of weeks.
This is in hopes to get Williams fully healthy for the Wild Card round, something that could be critical for the Giants’ success.
Here is why his health is so important.
Williams Is A Talented Pass Rusher
In his first full season with the Giants in 2020, Williams tallied 11.5 sacks and was one of the best rushers in all of football.
While he has failed to reach those same marks, he remains an imposing threat on the line.
Leonard Williams has quietly been the best player of camp this week but there’s really no need to point it out since he’s the best player on the Giants. This is expected.
— Justin Penik (@JustinPenik) August 4, 2022
That has been stifled even more this year, as he has only been able to total 2.5 sacks this season.
This doesn’t mean he isn’t a factor still though, as injuries have hurt these numbers.
If they are able to rest Williams and bring him back healthy for the playoffs, he could give the defense an extra boost.
This would not only be with his abilities on the field, but also his veteran experience and leadership.
Pairs With Thibodeaux
Kayvan Thibodeaux, the Giants talented first round pick, has broken out in recent weeks.
He has shown that he was well deserving of being the No. 5 overall pick.
This has happened particularly in the pass rush game, as he has begun getting to the QB at a higher rate.
The introduction of a healthy Williams into this defensive line can help open up more opportunities for each.
Giants front 4 of Dexter Lawrence, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Azeez Ojulari & Leonard Williams is young and unrelenting. pic.twitter.com/9ipVdTuUVQ
— Bobby Skinner (@BobbySkinner_) December 20, 2022
It gives the Giants a multi-threat attack, along with Dexter Lawrence and Azeez Ojulari, allowing them to potentially get to the QB at a higher rate.
With a pass-first team like Minnesota projecting as their Wild Card matchup, this could go a long way towards a victory.
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