Atlanta gets some secondary help.

Yesterday the Falcons picked up some much needed defensive back help. According to J.Mike’s Missives (blog on the official Atlanta Falcons site), Atlanta added former Jacksonville Jaguar Brian Williams.

Williams played under Smith — then the Jaguars’ defensive coordinator — in 2006 and 2007, starting 29 games at cornerback. The eight-year veteran has 93 starts (107 games), 484 tackles, 18 interceptions, four sacks, nine forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and 94 passes defensed in his career.

In 2008, Williams started all 16 games for the Jaguars, finishing with 89 tackles and two interceptions.

This is an encouraging signing for the Falcons, a full week after I was completely bummed out about the secondary’s performance. It looks like Williams was a salary cut victim.

Williams started 45 games the last three years, but was behind rookie Derek Cox(notes) this fall and too expensive to keep as a nickel back.

I wonder how quickly Tye Hill and Williams will push for playing time? Prior to the Williams signing, I thought Hill had a chance to push for Grimes or Houston for playing time. I know the coaching staff loves Grimes for his athletic ability, but sometimes that is not enough to make up for skill. Williams gives Atlanta additional depth, but could also push DeCoud for the starting FS spot.

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