While I’ve been skeptical about some of the New Orleans Saints’ moves so far this week, here’s one I can fully embrace -- bringing in Green Bay Packers cornerback Tramon Williams for a visit Tuesday, as ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter reported.
I listed Williams as the No. 1 target the Saints should pursue in free agency because I think the 10th-year veteran could provide the most bang for their buck at any position. The 5-foot-11, 191-pounder could bring stability to New Orleans’ most turbulent position from last year. Upgrading that position could have a ripple effect throughout the entire defense, since I still believe in the talent that underachieved on the defensive line and at safety last season.
Williams turns 32 next week, so he might be on the tail end of his prime. But he’s been extremely dependable for a long time, with 22 interceptions since 2010, including the playoffs (second only to Richard Sherman among active players). And he has missed only one game since 2007.
The cornerbacks have been flying off the free-agent market at eye-popping prices, but Williams’ age might make him a bit more affordable.
Plus, as an added bonus, Williams is a local. He was born in nearby Houma, Louisiana, prepped at Assumption High School in Napoleonville, La., and played college ball at Louisiana Tech.
Saints general manager Mickey Loomis told SiriusXM radio that part of the reason for trading tight end Jimmy Graham was because the Saints have "got to improve ourselves on defense." Now they have more future cap space and an extra first-round draft pick to do so. And Williams would be a great place to start.