One of the more surprising decisions of the Atlanta Falcons' 2025 offseason was moving on from Avery Williams. The veteran wasn't as impactful as expected in the 2024 season; however, the utility player was coming off a season-ending injury the year before. Williams likely needed a bit more time to return to his trajectory prior to the injury. Still, the decision to move on made a level of sense considering the ability of Ray-Ray McCloud as a returner. This is where Williams had the most value while also providing depth at corner and running back.
The veteran found a new landing spot with the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason but appears to be quickly sliding down the depth chart. Philly opted to sign A.J. Dillon behind star Saquon Barkley and Clemson alum Will Shipley. Leaving Williams with zero chance of making an impact at the position. Looking at the depth chart at cornerback, a similar issue emerges.
Former Atlanta Falcons Return Specialist Avery Williams is Already on Thin Ice in Philly
Adoree' Jackson and Mac McWilliams give the Eagles a stacked depth chart in the secondary as well. Already, this is the second position Williams plays, making it clear there isn't a role to be won for the veteran. This leaves Williams' lone hope of sticking on the Philly roster as winning a spot on the special-teams unit.
The pressure is turned up on the former Falcon to hold onto his roster spot by proving his value in the return game. Will Shipley is the most obvious competition, with the Eagles not having a great return option to spare. With a loaded offense, the team doesn't want to risk injuries to its many star players in what is often a high-risk play.
Because of this, Avery Williams maintains a chance to stick in Philly and win the return role for the defending champs. Still, it is a situation the Falcons should keep a close eye on throughout the summer. If the organization decides to move in another direction, Atlanta would be wise to consider a reunion and bring the utility option back to the Falcons roster.