5 Cleveland Browns players with the most at stake in 2021

4. CB Greedy Williams

When the Browns moved up to snag Williams in the 2019 NFL Draft, the move was applauded as a big-time steal, considering Williams had routinely been mocked in the top 20 selections, despite a disappointing final season in Baton Rouge. He provided excellent long speed, good length, and the man coverage skills that would complement Denzel Ward quite well.

Williams was thrust into action as a starter right away, which is a tough ask for a rookie cornerback. The position is quite difficult to adjust to in the NFL, and first-year players often struggle because of it. Williams had his ups and downs, but overall played quite a bit better than most give him credit for. He wasn’t great, but he was good, and had plenty of room to improve, especially at the catch point.

He was expected to take a step forward in 2020, but a shoulder injury caused a nerve issue, one that kept him out for the entire campaign, and for which he was only recently cleared in March. That is a very long time to go without playing, practicing, or lifting weights. Add in first-round rookie Greg Newsome II and Ward’s impending extension, and Williams’ fit with this team is unclear. He doesn’t have experience in the slot, and it’s unlikely his physical skillset would fare well inside.

Williams has a lot to prove in training camp. It’s been great to see him on the practice field at OTA’s, and it would not be a surprise to see him start over Newsome. He’s still a very talented player who can make an impact. But the team is not relying on him, and that means the pressure is on Williams to prove his worth.