The NY Giants defensive line and pass-rush sure are looking promising for the 2023 campaign. While plenty of attention this offseason, and rightfully so, has gone to Dexter Lawrence, don't forget about Leonard Williams.
Williams is coming off a bit of a down year for his standards in 2022, as he finished the campaign with 45 total tackles and just 2.5 sacks. However, he's ready to post big numbers in 2023. Before Week 1 arrives, it's important to remember that this is the last year of Williams' contract.
With his cap hit being at more than $32 million for 2023, it's obviously a rough number for general manager Joe Schoen. A way to bring things down would be to either restructure his contract or extend him. In terms of an extension, this is something Williams is quite open to.
"I want to be here and go through the grind, and then come out the good end to get a ring with them."
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) June 14, 2023
Leonard Williams on his future with the Giants: pic.twitter.com/NGZmkoqLCF
NY Giants DL Leonard Williams is open to an extension with the team
""There hasn't been many talks about it this offseason (contract). I'm obviously open to staying here. I think I have a good camaraderie with my teammates. I would love to keep playing with Dex. I would love to keep playing with these coaches that I've gotten to know.""Leonard Williams
Williams added that he's not looking to be a player who bounces around to suit up for multiple different teams. He's been enjoying himself with the Giants and he's hoping to help the team win a Super Bowl down the road.
However, if an extension doesn't get done this offseason, then this could indeed be the final year we see No. 99 suiting up for Wink Martindale's defense. Williams and Lawrence are an incredible duo up front for Big Blue.
They're going to give opposing offensive linemen headaches from start to finish during the regular season - and then hopefully in the playoffs. Williams wants this to keep being the case beyond '23. Joe Schoen has been quite creative this offseason with contracts. Getting a deal done with Williams would be wise, especially in terms of helping out with cap space.
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