Jack

Williams

WIlliams will compete for a spot in dime packages in 2008, but his rookie season will mostly be spent in preparation for next season, when Domonique Foxworth and Karl Paymah become unrestricted free agents.

Williams likely suffered ligament damage and will undergo reconstructive surgery. The 2008 fourth-round pick was claimed off waivers just last week.

Williams, who was just signed off waivers last week, was on crutches after the game. His status is unknown, but there’s speculation it’s a season-ending injury.

The Colts, Browns, and Eagles also put in claims, but Detroit had first dibs. Williams, a fourth-round pick last year, has terrific speed and some potential as a nickel back, but was routinely picked in on that spot with Denver.

Williams played just one game for the Lions after being claimed on waivers last week. While he’s signed through 2011, he’ll have to battle for a roster spot next season -- assuming he’s recovered from the ligament damage in his knee.

Williams was released to make room for recently signed Ty Law, who passed his physical on Saturday morning. Williams was the team’s 2008 fourth-round pick out of Kent State.

Paymah is getting the look ahead of rookie Jack Williams, who Denver would prefer to keep at nickel back. Paymah offers size, but hasn’t done much in his four seasons. This is where trading Domonique Foxworth to Atlanta hurts.

The team has a bye this week, so it’s conceivable that Bailey would only miss three or four games. Together with Champ’s linebacking brother, Boss, being placed on injured reserve, this is a devastating loss for an already reeling defense. Rookie Jack Williams is expected to take Champ’s spot in the starting lineup. Backup quarterback Patrick Ramsey is also out for the year.

Bell, who was activated from the practice squad just three weeks ago, got the nod over Karl Paymah and fellow rookie Jack Williams and made five tackles. Paymah is in a contract year and his stock has dropped a ton this season.