James Williams: Everything you need to know

Williams (shoulder) was a full participant at Thursday's practice, Turron Davenport of ESPN.com reports. Williams suffered an AC joint injury in his right shoulder during the season finale last year, but there are no lingering effects to start the offseason program. The 2024 seventh-round pick played just 79 defensive snaps over 16 gamers last year. With Arden Key with the Colts now, Williams could push for an increased role in 2026, and he should remain useful on special teams regardless.

Williams suffered an AC joint injury in his right shoulder during Sunday's matchup against the Jaguars, Paul Kuharsky of PaulKuharsky.com reports. Williams was seen wearing a sling Monday after the Titans' season finale versus Jacksonville. The severity of his injury is unclear. The 22-year-old played in 16 games of the 2025 season, accounting for 26 tackles (22 solo).

Williams tallied nine tackles (eight solo), including 1.0 sacks, during Tennessee's win over the Chiefs on Sunday. Williams benefited from increased playing time with Cedric Gray out with a concussion and turned in his best performance of the campaign, leading the team in tackles in addition to recording his first sack. The 22-year-old should get another start at linebacker should Gray remain sidelined for the Week 17 matchup versus the Saints.