Why Philadelphia Eagles Should Open Their Wallets for Mario Williams

Looking ahead to the 2012 NFL season, the Philadelphia Eagles are on the fringe of becoming arguably the most complete team.

Their biggest weakness in 2011 was the inability to stop the run and cover the intermediate routes on defense. Offensively, you could see there was a lack in chemistry, and with every opponent bringing their A-game, Philly was in trouble.

After the Eagles began just 1-4, however, they finished on a four-game winning streak, going 5-1 in the NFC East (best record in that division) and 8-8 overall.

Considering the level of individual talent on the team, this was no doubt a vehement disappointment. Still, building that timing, rhythm, trust and synergy together takes time, which is what we saw from the Eagles toward the end of the season and when playing divisional opponents.

Now include their potential cap space, and pursuing Mario Williams becomes another piece of the puzzle to get in place.

Throughout his six-year career, Williams has lived up to expectations as the No. 1 overall selection by the Houston Texans in 2006, without question.

He's a two-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro selection, has recorded 53 career sacks and forced 11 fumbles.

His 2011 campaign was unfortunately cut short due to injury. However, Williams still had collected five sacks and 10 solo tackles through not even five full games.

Philadelphia was an amazing pass-rush team in 2011 with 50 sacks, but 29 came from Trent Cole and Jason Babin (two defensive ends). Williams provides a legitimate pass-rush presence from the linebacker spot and the luxury to play in both 4-3 and 3-4 fronts.

His awareness at defending the pass (on occasion) is reliable enough to wall off any crossing patterns, and with his overall size he can apply pressure from the interior part of the line.

This then will create consistent one-on-one matchups for Cole and make recognition of screens and draws easier for the entire front seven.

As for obvious passing situations, Williams could also line up as a defensive tackle to prevent any chance of the receivers reaching the first-down markers. A side-effect of this is the quarterback having to release the ball earlier than wanted, which increases the odds of a turnover.

Philadelphia needs a stud linebacker/defensive end to improve the overall ability of its defense. Williams fits that mold almost to a T and will respond with a great season in large part because this is a second-chance opportunity.

John Rozum on Twitter.