Buffalo Bills 2015 Safeties Breakdown

Nov 30, 2014; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon (12) carries the ball as Buffalo Bills free safety Aaron Williams (23) tackles during the first half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

FS Aaron Williams

Although he looked better as a strong safety next to Byrd, Aaron Williams, who was initially drafted into the league as a cornerback out of Texas, held up well in coverage last year at the free safety position. Just 25, Williams has managed to make his mark as a credible starting safety in this league after being a disappointment at corner. He had less tackles, interceptions, and passes defended last year by significant margins, but Williams, per Pro Football Focus, also surrendered just one touchdown in coverage.

Williams is locked in as a starter, but it will be interesting to see if he plays at free safety or strong safety for the Bills. He has a real nose for the ball and can cover after previously playing corner, and Rex Ryan’s defensive scheme should allow his box score stats to jump up to the 2013 levels that caused him to earn a big five-year deal worth about $26.08 million with $14.6 million in guaranteed money.

It’s worth noting that Williams’s 2013 season came with Mike Pettine, who once worked under Ryan with the New York Jets, at defensive coordinator, and this furthers the notion that we could see a bigger season from him in 2015. Williams will have to cut down on the 11 missed tackles that haunted him last year, but he has the ability to be a playmaker and solid starter for the Bills throughout the duration of his contract.

Even though Ryan is now running the defense, Williams still figures to stay at free safety without a better coverage option available. The position swap wasn’t an issue for Williams at all, as he’s fast enough and effective enough in coverage to play at either spot.

Next: The other Williams