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Garrett Williams

Garrett Williams Player Profile

Summary

  • Drafted: Round 3, 72nd overall (2023) by the Arizona Cardinals. Arizona Cardinals

  • College: Syracuse University. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Key Stats / Production: Through his first two NFL seasons (2023–24), he played in 25 games with 17 starts, totaling 81 tackles, 3 interceptions, 11 pass breakups, a tackle for loss, and a forced fumble. Arizona Cardinals In 2024, earned a PFF overall grade of 82.0, and 83.7 in coverage (4th best among CBs). PFF

  • Accolades: At Syracuse, he was a multi‑year All-ACC performer (honorable mention), and was recognized for his all-around contributions. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Character / Profile: Williams has been praised for his aggressive mentality, willingness to play physical, and “alpha” mindset. SI He also won Syracuse’s Pat Miller Award in 2022, given to a student-athlete who “excels in the classroom and is a selfless contributor.” Arizona Cardinals

Strengths

  • Elite zone coverage ability — Williams is highly rated in zone; PFF views him as one of the top DBs in that role. Burn City Sports

  • Excellent coverage grade / ball skills — In 2024, he allowed very few big plays and recorded 2 picks. PFF

  • Physical and aggressive — He triggers downhill, plays through contact, and isn’t shy about mixing it up in run defense. SI

  • Good explosion & short-area quickness — Reacts fast, changes direction well, which helps in man and zone coverage. SI

  • Ball tracking / high-point ability — His length and leaping ability let him make plays on contested catches. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Strong instincts & awareness — Reads the backfield well, gets good pre-snap positioning, and can cue in on routes. SI

  • Resilience / comeback ability — Overcame an ACL injury in college to perform at a high level; has shown growth and maturity. NFL Draft Buzz

Weaknesses

  • Lack of elite top-end speed — Scouts have noted concerns about his ability to handle extremely fast or explosive receivers. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Footwork / technique polish — At times, his footwork and body control (hip turning) are less disciplined, which can lead to lagging on routes. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Durability risk — Has had significant injury history (ACL in college), and was placed on injured reserve in 2025 for a knee issue.

  • Limited press experience — More effective in zone than press; may need further development to be a full‑time outside press corner. SI

  • Size constraints — Listed at 5’10”, 192 lb, which is solid but not imposing, potentially limiting his physical matchups against bigger WRs.

  • Tendency to give up yards after leverage is lost — When he loses his hip leverage or misreads, he can be susceptible to big route gains (per some college scouting). NFL Draft Buzz

Fit & Outlook

Garrett Williams projects as a high-upside slot / nickel cornerback in the NFL, particularly in a defense that emphasizes zone coverage and movement. His 2024 performance showed he can be a reliable playmaker in coverage, and his physical, aggressive style makes him a durable presence in the secondary. For the Arizona Cardinals, Williams provides a rugged, intelligent option in sub-packages, and over time he could grow into a three-down corner, especially with further refinement in footwork and press technique. If he continues on his development trajectory (and stays healthy), he has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Cardinals’ young secondary.