Roy Williams Signs with the Bengals

Roy Williams, formerly the safety for the Dallas Cowboys, has signed with the Cincinnati Bengals. Although the specifics of the contract are unknown at this time, sources close to the Bengals indicate that it is a deal that will allow Williams to hit the free agent market again within a few seasons.

Roy Williams, Bengals (Image: Newscom)

Once a highly touted safety, Williams has heard more and more criticism in recent years. He’s a hard hitter but he struggles to defend against the pass. With the safety position in the NFL becoming more of a coverage position in recent years, Williams hasn’t been nearly as valuable. As a result, the Cowboys released him earlier in the offseason.

Apparently, the Bengals believe he can help their defense. Still just 28 years old, the safety out of Oklahoma could make a big difference if he adds an element of toughness to Cincinnati’s defense.

Due to injuries, Williams was only able to play in three games last year for the Cowboys. Perhaps the best season of his career came in 2002 as a rookie. In that campaign, he recorded 99 tackles, two sacks, three forced fumbles and five interceptions.