The New York Giants are in need of leaders as they enter yet another new era in their history. One of the choices for captain this year was an easy one — veteran defensive lineman Leonard Williams.
Williams, who is entering his eighth NFL season at just age 28, is a natural choice. For some reason, however, he has not held the title of captain since joining the Giants in October of 2019.
“I think it’s an honor,” he told reporters on Wednesday. “I’ve had the privilege to be a captain on every team I’ve been on. High School, college, when I was with the (New York) Jets, and now this is my first-time becoming captain with the Giants. It means a lot, being not a drafted guy here and have been able to work myself up as a team player and a guy that people respect wearing blue.”
It was mentioned that Williams will now have the distinction of becoming perhaps the first player to hold the title of captain for both the Jets and Giants.
“Oh yeah, I didn’t even think about that. It’s definitely an honor. It’s even more of an honor that it’s not chosen by the coaches, and it’s voted on by the players. It means more when it comes from your peers than your superiors,” he said.
Williams says he’s readymade for the season after being sidelined by an arm injury all summer.
“It got a little tweaked during camp. That’s the reason why I missed a few of those preseason games. I’m going to be fine. I’m practicing now. I’ve been getting in and out a few practices here and there, feeling it out and it feels ready to go,” he said.
Williams was wearing a brace on his left arm and said he would not need any type of surgery in the future. He was asked if he planned on wearing the brace all season.
“I’m not sure. I’m going to just play it day by day. 17 weeks is a long time to look ahead,” Williams said. “It’s been progressively getting better each day and each week. Right now, this is where I’m at and it feels strong. I’m able to go and do everything that we’re required to do as a D-lineman, in full pads and all that stuff. I think I’m not going to miss any games or anything like that because of it.”
Williams played all 17 games last season and has not played less than 15 games in a season during his entire career.
