CBS Sports' Pete Prisco named Williams the NFL's most underrated player entering this season. When hearing about that "honor," Williams shrugged his broad shoulders.

"It really doesn't mean much, I guess," he said. "It is what it is. I've just got to do my job on the field and do whatever I need to get done. I'm not worried about what the media says."

That said, it's media buzz that can lead to Pro Bowl honors. Williams was certainly worthy of at least being in the conversation last year, and said it is a goal of his heading into 2016.

"If it's not, you're being crazy," Williams said. "You've got to want that for yourself. But the biggest thing is winning games."

It's a catch 22 for the Ravens. Obviously they want Williams to play well to better their chances of getting back to the playoffs. But the better he plays, and the more attention he gets, the larger contract offer Williams would get if he hits the open market next March. With a big season, Williams could play himself out of Baltimore, a place he loves.