Former New England Patriots cornerback Joejuan Williams is starting a new chapter in his NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings.
The 2019 second-round draft pick is hoping a new location will help him change the narrative, which has mostly been that of a draft bust for the Patriots. He’ll have no shortage of opportunities on a Vikings defense that ranked second-worst against the pass in the 2022 season.
Former Patriots defensive assistant Brian Flores will also be overseeing things as the new Vikings defensive coordinator. So this could be Williams’ best shot at turning a corner.
“I’m very excited. I’m very thankful and blessed for the opportunity,” said Williams. “The overall history here has been amazing, just from the greats who came through this organization. Even the ties with coach Flores from the Patriots organization, definitely some similarities there. We had great conversations, and I’m really looking forward to playing for him.”
.@JoejuanW makes it official ✍️ pic.twitter.com/9Xb6SKuNyo
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) April 21, 2023
The Patriots are going through a bit of a transition of their own in the defensive backfield with Devin McCourty retiring and Jalen Mills moving from cornerback to safety.
As of right now, the cornerback position will be spearheaded by Jonathan Jones, Jack Jones and Marcus Jones. And the team will likely also add help in the upcoming NFL draft.
They’ll certainly need it to withstand the AFC East’s juggernaut offenses.
