Continuing my look at the top 10 unrestricted free agents for the Carolina Panthers is a player whose past few seasons have been plagued by injuries.
Next up: No. 9, Garry Williams
Reason to re-sign: He has experience with 21 starts since 2009, including a career-best 11 in 2010. He is versatile enough to play either tackle position or guard, having started at each. When you are looking for quality players to provide backup depth in case a starter is injured, he fits the bill. He’s only 28.
Reason not to re-sign: He has finished the season on injured reserve three times since 2011, including last year with a back injury suffered in September. General manager Dave Gettleman said when evaluating talent at the combine that one thing he looks for is how quick a prospect can get on the field and help the team. If he uses that philosophy here, it would be adjusted to can he keep Williams on the field. Recent history says no. Williams has played in only two games the past two seasons.
Prediction: That the organization has re-signed restricted free agent Chris Scott might be a sign. Scott does many of the same things Williams does. If the back isn’t an issue, the Panthers could bring Williams back for depth, at least into training camp. My gut says the team will move on.
