Marcus Williams has a knack for making plays. Last season he led the team with six interceptions while playing 27% of the defensive snaps. Furthermore, he added one forced fumble, one recovery and seven special teams tackles. But 2016 isn't about maintaining status quo, it's about advancing his craft.
"I want to continue to get better every single day and build on last year," Williams said regarding his training camp goals. "Focus on little things like tackling, get better in coverage. There are a lot of things I can get better at that I'm focusing on. I've been working on them in the offseason and preseason, and then studying the game with the older guys as well."
Lucky for Williams, he has the chance to pick the brain of a preeminent corner in Darrelle Revis.
"It's real helpful because you can see what he sees," he said. "He's a guy that's been around for a long time and has done very well. When you have a guy like that, you can learn from him and see how he approaches meetings, practice and the game. It's something good to look after."
Williams, who also holds a prominent role on special teams, is competing for the starting spot opposite Revis. The North Dakota State product is picking up where he left off last season — around the ball. After he made a deft tackle on punt coverage resulting in a one-yard loss against Jacksonville, he nearly came away with an interception in Tuesday's practice. The 5'11", 196-pounder is eager to take the field Friday against the Redskins following the first taste of football against the Jags.
"I'm excited to go against other receivers like DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon as opposed to the guys we see every single day," he said. "They're different types of receivers. Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker and Quincy Enunwa are big physical guys and I think the Redskins have more speedy guys."
As for individual goals this season? Nonexistent.
Williams made it clear: "I have more of a team goal — make the playoffs."
