Kansas City Chiefs defensive backs coach Dave Merritt opened up about the status of cornerback Joshua Williams during Friday’s press conference.
“When Jaylen Watson was playing a lot, I told Josh (Williams), ‘Stay ready. Your time is going to come.'” said Merritt. “Sure enough, it definitely came, in a way that we (didn’t expect) it to come, but Josh is one of those young men who works better when you give them more reps in practice, probably 90% of our locker room. Once you give them more reps and they get more comfortable, they can go out and execute what we’re asking them to do.”
Williams has shared time with teammate Nazeeh Johnson, who is replacing the injured Watson. The former Fayetteville State standout has gotten extra reps while Johnson recovers from his concussion. Merritt reminded reporters of Williams stepping in admirably during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals last season.
“You guys remember when he went in the game for LJ (L’Jarius) Sneed, Cincinnati (Bengals) game after what four or five plays?” said Merritt. “The kid continued to play well through the rest of the Super Bowl runs. So, two years of experience, postseason, the kid has been in there, so I’m not going to skip a beat. I trust him, and I believe that he’s going to do well.”
The Week 9 matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is another opportunity for Williams to prove he can handle the starting role.