Demorrio

Williams

The promising rookie has been getting alot of reps in practice and led the Falcons with 22 tackles during the preseason.

Williams is one of only three veteran linebackers returning to Atlanta next season and is an IDP player to watch. He’s too small to play MLB, though.

A popular breakout candidate in IDP leagues, this is a position battle to watch this preseason. It’d be a surprise if Williams can’t win the job.

It’s been a hotly contested battle, but Williams has more talent and fantasy upside of the two.

Reese worked a lot with the first-team defense in base schemes Thursday and said afterward that the starting position is his to lose.

Williams was on the trade block this offseason and, after starting in 2005, admits he’s not happy about the demotion. He won’t be an IDP option unless someone in front of him gets hurt.

The 31-year-old will stay in the AFC West as a backup to Takeo Spikes and Donald Butler in San Diego. Williams reportedly had interest from 5-6 teams, and chose the Chargers as his best shot at playing time.

The move will reportedly save $1.7 million in cap space. According to Pro Football Focus, Williams played just 73 defensive snaps last season as a backup linebacker. Turning 31 in July, Williams will have to battle for a roster spot no matter where he lands.

Per the Union-Tribune San Diego, Williams has “impressed” this offseason. It’s unclear how many snaps would be “sufficient,” but it’s likely more than the 69 Williams saw for the Chiefs last season. Second-year pro Jonas Mouton will be a higher upside backup to Donald Butler and Takeo Spikes at inside linebacker.

With Donald Butler (groin) also sidelined, San Diego will likely turn to a rotation between Bront Bird and Andrew Gatchkar opposite Takeo Spikes. Bird played 19 snaps last week after Williams left the game and recorded six total tackles and an interception. Bird’s role in the Chargers base and subpackage defenses is unclear, so owners in IDP leagues are best advised to avoid this situation.