Cowboys safety Roy Williams, whose pass coverage liabilities have been well documented in this space and others, decided to change numbers from 31 to 38 after the end of last season.
It was a way of reinventing himself. Or so he thought.
But Williams has become a lightning rod for criticism in Big D, and the fact that he has shunned the media only adds to the distraction and creates more controversy.
Not surprisingly, his teammates, coaches and own came to his defense in talking about the veteran safety, who is more widely known for his big hits and horse collar tackles than his solid pass coverage.
Comments (2)
Bob,
It's no secret among your long time readers that Roy Williams is probably your least favorite NFL'er (No confirmation necessary).
I'd be interested on hearing your thoughts about "media friendly" and "media unfriendly" ball-players.
Experiences, "Chicken and Egg" (Which came first, them not talking to the media or the media not liking them).
With out naming names, are there guys who talk to the media a lot who you really can't stand? Are there guys who don't talk who you think are "stand up guys"?
Is there much conversation where the player or coach says "this is off the record". Have you ever told anyone you didn't want to go "off the record" because you weren't comfortable holding something back?
Just curious if you can share any of that.
B N G:
You bring up very interesting points.
For starters, I have nothing against Williams personally. Nothing. The fact that he hasn't talked to the media lately does not affect my take on him in the least.
What I don't like about Williams is simple: His horse collar tackles are some of the most vicious, injury-causing plays the NFL has ever seen. I hate them, plain and simple. The fact that he can't cover is a separate issue. I've always felt that the public has been slow to grasp that, but the word is finally out. For all his big hits, he gives up WAY too many big plays in the passing game because he lacks speed and instinct.
Your question about whether media people like or dislike athletes based on how/if they deal with the media is a very real issue in my business. I have come across many writers whose opinions of athletes are directly tied to their dealings with the media. I am not one of them.
I think it's fine to call a guy on the carpet for being a boor with the media, but it should not affect how his performance is portrayed. Some of the greatest athletes ever have been reluctant public figures. Marvin Harrison (forget the shooting allegations, which are just that) has been reclusive with the media, but I have had nothing but respect for the way he plays.
I also believe it's a player's right to vent at the media if he/she feels he/she has been treated unfairly. It's a very tricky business, and I think it's important for the media to give athletes some latitude.
I've had a few dust-ups with players over the years, but they've ALWAYS resulted in a better understanding on both sides.
As for the "off the record" situation, there are some instances where this will come into play. I make sure that a player, coach or GM can feel comfortable going "off the record," because it creates a much more long-lasting relationship of trust.
That, to me, is what it's all about in this business. If you can be trusted, there is nothing more valuable.