Malcolm

Williams

Williams made his NFL debut in Week 14 after being promoted from the practice squad on Saturday. Roster yo-yo Ross Ventrone could be on his way back to the 53-man roster.

Williams was active for New England’s Week 14 win over the Redskins, but was held off the stat-sheet. He could see time in the secondary Sunday if the Patriots bury the Bills early.

A seventh-round pick, Williams was cut from the active roster late in training camp and assigned to the practice squad. He’ll be making his NFL debut if he’s active against the Redskins. Despite the near constant state of flux in New England’s secondary, most of Williams’ snaps should come on special teams.

With Ras-I Dowling, Steve Gregory, and Patrick Chung out for Sunday’s game against the Rams, the depth was badly needed. Williams, a 2011 seventh-rounder out of TCU, will be used mainly on special teams. He played in five games for the Patriots last season.

Aiken was promoted in advance of last week’s game before being waived on Monday. Williams recorded a tackle in one game for New England earlier in the season. Both players will be limited to special teams if they’re active on game day.

Herman tore his Achilles’ during OTAs last year. Williams contributed on special teams in 2012, but the Patriots never viewed him as a legit defensive back.

Williams a big-time high school recruit who went the JUCO route before starting his TCU career as a special teamer and safety in 2009. He moved to corner last season and apparently caught the New England staff’s eye while they were scouting fifth-round G/T Marcus Cannon. It looks like Bill Belichick has found his 2011 version of Matt Slater.

"(He) has like a 42 inch vertical, unbelievable athletic ability, played all special teams,” said TCU coach Gary Williamson. “Malcolm is your true evidence of New England doing their homework.” Williams played sparingly on defense in college, so he won’t be asked to do more than special teams in New England.