To hear Corey Williams tell it at his introductory press conference as a new member of the Cleveland Browns, the defensive lineman couldnt get away from the Green Bay Packers fast enough.
I wanted out of Green Bay, said Williams, whose trade to the Browns was officially announced today. Im glad Cleveland called me. I feel like Im wanted here. It feels like home to me, which Ive only been here one day. I already feel like Ive got the love that Ive been looking for and Im happy and excited about it.
Williams felt the love, as well as a swollen wallet after the Browns doled out a six-year, $38.6 million contract that included $16.3 million in guaranteed money.
That was exactly the kind of long-term commitment the Packers werent willing to make to Williams, a sixth-round draft choice in 2004. Defensive line is one of the Packers strongest positions in terms of depth, one reason they could afford to let Williams go.
The emergence of Johnny Jolly last season and the expected development of Justin Harrell, last years first-round draft choice, were prime reasons Williams became expendable.
When asked why he didnt want to play in Green Bay, Williams replied: Theres a bunch of different reasons. I dont care to talk about them. I just wanted out.
Not only did Williams receive a substantial raise, but he will likely see more playing time in Cleveland, where he is expected to start at end in the Browns 3-4 defensive alignment. In Green Bay, Williams was part of a rotation that sometimes went eight-deep.
Williams admitted he wasnt happy when the Packers placed a franchise tag on him last week, and he was thankful Cleveland was still interested. The Browns traded a second-round draft choice (No. 56 overall) to the Packers for Williams.
We wouldnt be able to draft a guy in the second round that can come in and do what Corey can do, said Browns Coach Romeo Crennel.
The Browns are left without a first-day draft choice this year. They traded their first-round pick for quarterback Brady Quinn last year, and their third-round selection was dealt to the Detroit Lions this weekend for defensive tackle Shaun Rogers.
The Packers, meanwhile, have three picks among the top 60 in what is considered a relatively deep draft.
Williams described himself to the Cleveland media as a hard worker who loves the game of football and couldnt be happier in Cleveland. As soon as I walked in the door I felt the love, he said. Walking through the door seeing smiles on peoples faces, that meant a lot. Being in the situation Im in now, Im really excited.
Moss speculation:
ESPN.com reported that unrestricted free agent wide receiver Randy Moss and the New England Patriots are far apart in contract talks. That has fueled speculation Moss will start shopping around, although no media outlet could confirm this. An NFL.com report said Moss frustration was growing and he might start taking free-agent visits and could end up in Green Bay with Brett Favre. The NFL Network suggested the Packers might pursue Moss as a way to persuade Favre to return for another season.