When the New Orleans Saints drafted Marcus Williams in the second round this year, it seemed likely he would play a role as a rookie.
In 2016, the Saints frequently utilized packages with three safeties, and with Jairus Byrd no longer on the team, there was a clear path for Williams to earn playing time along with projected starters Kenny Vaccaro and Vonn Bell.
However, as the Saints approach their season opener on Monday night against the Minnesota Vikings, there's a good chance Williams will start the year as more than a rotational player.
Based on the depth chart, Ryan Ramczyk is the only rookie guaranteed to start in Week 1 as the man ahead of him, left tackle Terron Armstead is out, but Williams is one of three rookies likely to be on the field for the first defensive play, along with cornerback Marshon Lattimore and weak-side linebacker Alex Anzalone.