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The Detroit Lions’ cuts keep coming and they just dropped a minor bombshell. According to ESPN’s Josina Anderson the Lions have waived 2015 fifth-round pick Antwione Williams.
I'm told the #Lions have cut 2016 5-rounder LB Antwione Williams.
— Josina Anderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 2, 2017
Williams began the preseason as Detroit’s starting SAM linebacker, so this news comes as a major surprise. Last year, Williams was forced into the lineup due to injuries and played in 14 games (starting three). Though his play was understandably iffy, he still managed to tally 27 tackles in his rookie season.
Williams was expected to play a role as a potential starter and, if not, a primary backup. However, Williams was still in the game late against the Buffalo Bills for Thursday’s preseason finale, so it appears he has fallen out of favor with the man who drafted him, general manager Bob Quinn.
Williams is still practice squad eligible, so there’s a good chance he’ll return to the roster there. For now it appears the Lions may go with veteran Paul Worrilow as the starting SAM linebacker, and this move may create room for youngster Steve Longa to make the final 53-man roster.
Follow all of the Lions’ cuts today with our 2017 Detroit Lions cuts tracker.