2017 NFL Draft: BYU Jamaal Williams Scouting Report

BYU’s Jamaal Williams is a big bodied running back prospect who is currently flying under the radar.

Jamaal Williams is a talented running back who deserves more attention from the NFL draft community. He’s a bigger back who is most effective when he focuses on getting downhill. Williams routinely gains yards after initial contact and breaks arm tackles.

He has a solid downhill burst that allows him to press the line and shoot through the hole. However, he has a tendency to play east and west which limits his effectiveness. Williams isn’t the type of running back who should try to string out a play.

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His success working to the edge comes when he doesn’t hesitate. However, Williams does show solid vision with the ability to plant his foot and get up field.

BYU asks Williams to split out at wide receiver pretty regularly. He flashes the ability to pluck the ball away from his frame, but doesn’t get much usage in the passing game. Instead, Williams is asked to protect the quarterback very often.

He’s a willing pass blocker, but needs to work on his technique and strength. Too often, he dives at the rushers legs which results in some complete misses. When he does square his body to the pass rush he lacks the strength to anchor after contact.

Williams needs to really improve his ability to hold up in protection if he hopes to see the field often in his rookie season.

However, there are plenty of teams that are looking for a powerful runner who fights for extra yards. He’d best fit in a system that asks him to make one cut and get downhill. This will help keep him from working laterally and allow him to work to his strengths.

Current Draft Status: 4th Round

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