Avery Williams News

Williams was drafted by the Falcons in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft as a defensive back and return man, but the Boise State product was converted to running back ahead of the 2022 campaign. With Damien Williams out of the picture after Week 1 due to a rib injury, Avery Williams quickly worked his way up the running back depth chart and saw a decent role during the campaign given his circumstances. However, Tyler Allgeier and Cordarrelle Patterson dominated the backfield work, which left limited opportunities for Williams and Caleb Huntley. Williams has two years remaining on his rookie contract and figures to have a solid shot at a roster spot next year due to his return abilities, but he'll also have a chance to carve out a larger offensive role following a full offseason at his new position.

Williams was forced out of the team's Week 17 game with the Cardinals and could not return. However, after a couple of days off the field, the second-year-pro was able to return and participate in full. He should be able to suit up Sunday against the Buccaneers.

Williams had one carry for minus two yards and a reception for two yards before exiting, as well a kick return for 23 yards. As the team's No. 3 back, behind Tyler Allgeier and Cordarrelle Patterson, Williams' absence won't have much of an impact. However, it could force Patterson in taking over all return duties for the remainder of the contest.

With Caleb Huntley (Achilles) out, Williams stepped up as the Falcons' No. 3 running back and totaled five touches for just the second time this season. He made the most of his increased offensive opportunity by recording a season-high 30 yards from scrimmage while also operating as the team's primary punt and kick returner. As long as Tyler Allgeier and Cordarrelle Patterson are healthy, Williams likely remains irrelevant in standard fantasy leagues, but he's certainly a player to monitor now that he's in line for increased work during Atlanta's final two regular season games.

Caleb Huntley (ankle) played just two snaps before leaving the game in the first half, which opened up a few more opportunities for Williams, who played 10 offensive snaps and caught multiple passes for the third time this season. However, even if Huntley misses extended time, Williams likely remains irrelevant in fantasy as long as Tyler Allgeier and Cordarrelle Patterson are available.

Williams played on just nine of the Falcons' 63 offensive snaps as the team's No. 4 running back. The second-year rusher has fallen down the depth chart with the return of Cordarrelle Patterson in the past two games. Williams instead saw most of his work on special teams, playing 90% of special teams snaps in the contest. With Patterson, Tyler Allgeier and Caleb Huntley all healthy, the 24-year-old will be hard-pressed to produce for fantasy purposes going forward. Williams and the Falcons will host the Bears in Week 11.