Free-agent cornerback Tramon Williams has already visited the Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints. He may have another suitor in the AFC North division.
According to Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun, the Ravens have "displayed interest" in Williams after losing out on cornerback Perrish Cox, who signed with the Tennessee Titans on a three-year, $15 million contract. Baltimore isn't in desperate need of a cornerback, but some depth would help them after they dealt with numerous injury issues in 2014.
Jimmy Smith was limited to eight games last season because of a broken foot and fellow corner Asa Jackson played in only seven games after tearing his PCL, while also dealing with a toe injury and a concussion. This put the brunt of the work on Lardarius Webb, who was coming off of ACL surgery, and second year corner Rashaan Melvin, which significantly affected their passing defense. They finished 23rd in passing yards allowed.
Williams is still regarded as a starter, but the need for three capable cornerbacks has been a necessity in recent seasons because the NFL has transitioned to a passing league. The 32-year-old spent his entire nine-year career with the Packers and has missed only one game over that span, starting 99 of his 127 games. Williams notched a career-high 65 tackles last season and added three interceptions and 14 passes defended.
However, the Ravens may not be able to afford Williams since he's seeking at least $5 million per season, according to sources. Baltimore has $141 million committed to the 2015 salary cap and that limit has been set at $143.28 million for the upcoming league year, so they'll have to do some clearing if they want to add Williams.
Speaking of which, Webb noted he was "worried" after the team trade Haloti Ngata to the Detroit Lions because he thought he could be next. Webb accounts for $12 million against the cap this season, and it wouldn't shock many if General Manager Ozzie Newsome found a suitor for the 29-year-old.
The Packers, Seahawks, Vikings and Eagles are some other teams interested in Williams' services, which is likely to create some competition for the Ravens. However, Seattle and Baltimore provide intriguing destinations because Williams will almost undoubtedly excel with other talented players around him in those secondaries.
