Following a year in which he recorded 11.5 sacks, the New York Giants signed Leonard Williams to a big-money, long-term deal during the 2021 offseason.
In response, Williams posted a career-high 81 tackles to go along with two forced fumbles, two passes defensed, 14 QB hits and 6.5 sacks.
It wasn’t the sort of statistical year Williams had hoped for, but that paled in comparison to the team’s 13 losses. But that adversity brought growth, Williams recently told Madelyn Burke of Giants.com.
“I grew most just mentally. It was a tough season and I had (some) injuries near the end of the season that I had to fight through,” Williams said. “Just playing through a lot of adversity. Being able to push through, keep my mentality, still make plays, affect the game somehow and help my team. I think that’s where I grew most — just mentally.”
Williams also admits there wasn’t a moment he didn’t feel pressure, but that had less to do with his contract and more to do with his desire to be among the league’s best.
“I don’t think there’s ever a year or week or play that there’s not pressure,” Williams said. “I put pressure on myself more than anyone, to be honest. And it’s just because I want to be great.
“I’m always looking at what I can do to get better, [improve] my stats and help out the team.”
Williams says he will spend the first two months of the offseason in Florida at the “House of Athletes” working on recovery and mobility before departing for the “Sports Academy” in California. Outside of some spear fishing, that’s where he’ll remain until the time comes to return to East Rutherford.
