New York Jets: 3 Players with something to prove in 2018

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - SEPTEMBER 11: Teddy Bridgewater #5 of the Minnesota Vikings on field before the game against the New Orleans Saints on September 11, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Bridgewater begins the season on the physically unable to perform list. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) /

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 24: Leonard Williams #92 of the New York Jets reacts during the first half against the Los Angeles Chargers in an NFL game at MetLife Stadium on December 24, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Ed Mulholland/Getty Images) /

Leonard Williams

This is probably not fair. Not fair at all because the USC product was double-teamed so often during the 2017 campaign. The fact of the matter is that Williams’ stats were down across the board last year. Gang Green fans are hoping for a bounce back season from the 6-5, 302-pound defensive lineman in 2018.

After a Pro Bowl year in 2016, Williams certainly missed Sheldon Richardson along the defensive line for the 5-11 Jets last year. Not only that but because Muhammad Wilkerson performed like someone already collecting social security, Williams really had his hands full with the opposition clearly focusing on him.

The Bakersfield, CA native hasn’t missed a game since being selected with the sixth overall pick in the 2015 draft. He’s always been very durable. However, Williams did set career lows last year in tackles (47) and sacks (2). He is still effective against the run but there is no doubt he can’t be disruptive at the point of attack without some help.

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The Jets are hoping that the addition of third-round draft selection Nathan Shepherd and the continued improvement of Mike Pennel, Xavier Cooper, Steve McLendon and Deon Simon will allow Williams to return to his Pro Bowl form. Although he is powerful and athletic, Williams can only do so much when double-teamed. He’s a special player though. Williams needs to perform like the player he was two seasons ago if New York hopes to compete for an AFC playoff berth.

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