Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Eagles have reached an agreement with Avery Williams, a return specialist, on a one-year contract. This addition aims to enhance the team's special teams unit.

Williams led the NFL in punt returns in 2022, averaging 16.2 yards per return. Throughout his career, he has averaged 22.4 yards per kickoff return and 10.9 yards per punt return. In the most recent season, Williams played all 17 regular-season games and recorded averages of 27.2 yards per kickoff return and 9.3 yards per punt return.

At 26 years old, Williams entered the NFL as a fifth-round draft pick by the Atlanta Falcons from Boise State in 2021. Initially drafted as a cornerback, he transitioned to running back in his second season with Atlanta—a position he played during high school.

Williams was initially a walk-on at Boise State and hails from Pasadena, California. He shares the NCAA Division I record for nine combined punt and kick return touchdowns during his college career. His achievements include twice being named Mountain West Conference Special Teams Player of the Year and earning third-team AP All-American honors as an all-purpose player in his senior year.