In redraft leagues, we’re always looking to buy that lottery ticket and hit the $10 million payout. The late-round gems that can propel your team to glory.
This section of The IDP Show Draft Kit looks at those defenders who are in line for an expanded role or more opportunities to contribute. With a few exceptions, these guys are typically available later in our drafts and can exceed their current ADP or projections. So, let’s look at the breakout candidates for the 2024 season.
Sam Williams, EDGE, Dallas Cowboys
ADP: DL85 (EDGE65)
I think Sam Wiliams is this season’s Bryce Huff. I’ve always liked Williams’ upside and I think he sees an uptick in usage and opportunities this season.
Dorance Armstrong left for division rival Washington and reunited with Dan Quinn. Williams has a clear path to snaps as the EDGE2 opposite DeMarcus Lawrence. One of their most deployed lineups was Lawrence, Armstrong, Dante Fowler, and Micah Parsons. Now Mike Zimmer is the DC, so things are likely to change, but Williams brings pass-rush upside to go along with Lawrence and Parsons.
Williams has appeared in 576 total snaps over his first two seasons, generating a 12% pressure rate. He improved upon his win rate from his rookie year to 16%. He’s a high-motor guy who doesn’t stop until the whistle, so if you think you have him blocked, you better play to the whistle. He’s recorded 8.5 sacks and 2 forced fumbles, so he’s going to go after the ball.
Williams enters his third year with a lot of expectations thanks to the exit of Armstrong and Fowler. The buy-now window has opened for Williams and the lack of action during free agency has confirmed the Cowboys have trust in Williams to handle the additional workload. In my initial projections, I’ve got him recording 7.2 sacks in 505 defensive snaps.