5 days ago
Both Jets LBs Quincy Williams, Jamien Sherwood rank among best by NFL coaches, execs
Execs, coaches and scouts rank top 10 off-ball linebackers:Consensus: This is the NFL's weakest position.-Fred Warner in class by himself-Top-five surprise out of Washington-Even bigger surprise out of Dallas-A 35-year-old legend back in top 10https://
The New York Jets received fantastic linebacker play from Jamien Sherwood and Quincy Williams last season. Sherwood recorded a team-high 158 tackles, tied for third-most in the NFL. Williams was a workhorse himself, totaling 116 tackles.
ESPN has been releasing their top-10 position rankings list ahead of training camps opening around the league. The off-ball linebackers rankings were released on Tuesday. Williams made the list at No. 10, while Sherwood earned an honorable mention.
"Williams backed up an All-Pro season in 2023 with another strong performance, earning several top-three votes," Jeremy Fowler summarized. "He held off several top competitors, including future Hall of Famer Bobby Wagner, for the 10th spot. Williams lives in the backfield, combining for 41 tackles for loss since 2022. His pass deflections decreased from 10 to four year over year."
"Zero to 100 closing speed sideline to sideline," an NFL defensive coach said. "Will strike you. Dog."
"He's a Pro Bowl-caliber player, elite speed and burst to close, plays physical and bigger than he is -- but to be elite you have to consistently take the ball away and he hasn't done that," a veteran NFL defensive coach said.
Meanwhile, Sherwood earned that honorable mention.
"Ascending player. He's a bullet. Was one of my favorite [pending] free agents back in March." -- NFL personnel evaluator said.
The Jets signed Sherwood to a three-year, $45 million contract extension earlier this offseason. Williams is entering a contract year after previously inking a three-year, $18 million extension. Sherwood and Williams will be keynote performers for new head coach Aaron Glenn in 2025.
