Why Arizona Cardinals’ Garrett Williams is one of NFL's most underappreciated defenders

Arizona Cardinals' Garrett Williams is quietly fashioning one of the most impressive résumés of any NFL defensive back, dominating the challenging nickelback slot. For all his top-shelf playmaking ability and capacity to shut down opposing slot receivers, Garrett Williams remains overlooked, overshadowed by brighter stars.

But among league insiders, there's increasing buzz that Garrett Williams could be one of the NFL's best-kept defensive secrets.

Garrett Williams brings elite flexibility to Arizona Cardinals' secondary

Nickelback is the NFL's toughest and most physically demanding position. It requires a corner's speed, a safety's smarts, and a linebacker's ruggedness all in one man. Garrett Williams, in his third year with the Arizona Cardinals, has mastered the hybrid role, consistently shutting down interior passing windows as well as playing as a stout run-stopping stopper. All his contributions notwithstanding, Garrett Williams tends to be missing in action in highlight reels and end-of-year lists.

Lack of recognition may cost Garrett Williams more than awards

The coaching staff for the Arizona Cardinals has sung praises from within for Garrett Williams' discipline and work ethic, describing how he's been a key player in their developing defensive strategy. But his relative anonymity in terms of league-wide acclaim might affect not only his appearances but also contract negotiations down the line and more general media attention.

Nevertheless, Williams isn't the type to seek headlines. He has accepted the mantle of being a quiet presence—Arizona's "invisibility cloak" in the defensive backfield. Fans and experts who pay closer attention will notice a player softly redefining the nickelback position in the modern pass-oriented NFL. Also read: Sean McVay excited about NFL talent in Olympic flag football and calls it a rare chanceAs teams continue to prioritize speed, spacing, and mismatches, players such as Garrett Williams are more and more crucial. Although his name isn't yet ringing out among casual fans, those on the inside recognize his worth, and that information needs to break out. If the Arizona Cardinals' defense improves in 2025, look for Garrett Williams to be a big part of the reason why. And perhaps then, the NFL universe will finally wake up and take notice of one of its most well-rounded and underrated defenders.