All News & Analysis

Fantasy Reaction: Kenny Phillips and Cary Williams Sign With Philadelphia

The Eagles continued the much-needed overhaul of their secondary, signing FS Kenny Phillips and CB Cary Williams. Philadelphia has already grabbed Pat Chung and Bradley Fletcher.

Phillips appeared to be on the verge of a breakout last season following 82 total tackles and four picks in 2011. Knee issues that have nagged Phillips throughout his pro career kept him on the sideline for most of 2012.

Injuries coupled with Stevie Brown’s strong play ultimately made Phillips expendable for the Giants, though there were rumors the Giants were going to tag him. Perhaps due to his injury history, the Eagles inked Phillips to a one-year “show me” deal.

There are fewer question marks surrounding Williams, who certainly turned some heads this past postseason, racking up 27 total tackles and two picks as the Ravens marched to the Super Bowl championship.

Williams has 70-plus total tackles in each of the last two seasons, and recorded four interceptions and a touchdown last season. He also has a whopping 35 passes defensed over the last two regular seasons. Philadelphia locked Williams up to a three-year, $17 million contract.

As it currently projects, Williams will man the right corner, with Fletcher on the left. Brandon Boykin is presently the most likely candidate to play the slot corner in the nickel subpackages. Phillips is better suited to the free safety role, with Chung at strong safety.

In terms of fantasy value, Williams has proven to be a viable fantasy commodity and will continue to be one this season. His tackle numbers are a tad on the low side for a defensive back, but his big-play upside is a nice bonus. He’s a matchup DB3 who makes for a borderline CB1 in CB-required leagues.

Phillips holds less fantasy value than Williams, as Chung will be the Eagles safety to own in 2013. If healthy, it’s extremely unlikely Phillips approaches triple-digit total tackles, so you’re left to depend on inconsistent big plays for fantasy production, which is never a sound strategy. It’s a good idea to pass on Phillips this season.

All Featured Tools

Subscriptions

Unlock the 2023 Fantasy Draft Kit, with League Sync, Live Draft Assistant, PFF Grades & Data Platform that powers all 32 Pro Teams

$31 Draft Kit Fee + $8.99/mo
OR
$89.88/yr + FREE Draft Kit