Jamal Williams maintains he feels as good as he has in at least three years, following offseason surgery to clean out both knees.

Yet the Chargers are easing the 32-year-old cornerstone of their defense into training camp. The starting nose tackle has yet to participate in team drills.

“They just want to make sure I get the proper rest,” Williams said. “You've got to be patient.”

Williams missed three starts last season, had midseason surgery and was not quite himself for much of the year.

“It was very frustrating,” he said. “You knew you were struggling a little, but you don't want to let your teammates down. You push yourself to be out there.”

He said he feels refreshed, and he does look good doing what running he does. But because his effectively clogging the middle is essential to the Chargers' success, rest is perhaps the most important component to his training camp.

“We're going to take our time with it, which will make the season a lot better,” Williams said. “This is my 11th training camp. You've got to be a lot more patient and work up.”

Cason shines

First-round pick Antoine Cason is over those three days he missed last week while waiting for his contract to get done.

He had a brilliant second day as a Charger yesterday, especially in the afternoon practice. He was quick to the ball and made a couple of plays, signaling that he is not only skilled but knows what he's doing.

Cason worked with the first team in the nickel package, while Paul Oliver spent time at free safety with the second team. Cason also worked as the second-team corner and put together some great series.

He and Oliver will switch off at nickel until the staff decides who will start the season there.

“We're going to mix it up throughout camp,” head coach Norv Turner said. “ .... Over the next three weeks we'll get a good look at those guys.”

Tucker can play

Jyles Tucker made a play in the morning typical of the two men he backs up – Shawne Merriman and Shaun Phillips.

Tucker jumped up, blocked and then came down with a Billy Volek pass. Tucker also showed this special kind of athleticism when he made three sacks in the regular-season finale in December.

Tucker's presence could be a consolation should the Chargers be unable to sign Merriman to a long-term contract extension.

Nuts 'n' Bolts

Cletis Gordon is working at gunner on punt coverage, which is fine with Antonio Cromartie. The Pro Bowl corner likes the challenge of running down on punts, but he hopes to be replaced in order to be able to concentrate on (and rest for) his cornerback chores. The Chargers also think it might be smart to protect Cromartie.

The players will lift this morning and practice at 4 p.m. That practice will be the first of camp in pads, which means the intensity will increase immensely.

Tickets remain for all eight regular-season home games and the two preseason contests.

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Kevin Acee: (619) 293-1857; kevin.acee@uniontrib.com