Production: Williams accumulated 54 receptions for 627 yards and 4 touchdowns during his senior campaign. He also won the Mackey Award, for the nation’s top tight end. Posted his best numbers as a sophomore with 58 catches for 699 yards and 3 touchdowns. Williams has soft hands and can make plays after the catch. He’s also very productive in the run game as a blocker. Will need to bulk up for the next level though.
Height – weight – Speed: At 6’2’’, 245-pounds, he doesn’t have ideal size for a TE, but makes up for it with his playmaking ability and dedication to run blocking. For the next level, the players get bigger and stronger. He may be relegated to a pass catching Tight End only. Williams measureables allow him to line up on the line of scrimmage, in the slot, and in certain instances, outside the numbers. His height, weight, and speed cause a ton of match up issues for defenses.
Durability: Played in all 13 games during the 2010 season. He’s a tough player who has displayed the will to play through various injuries.
Ball Skills: A sure handed natural passer catch with soft hands. Knows how to extend his arms, never letting the ball into his frame. Tracks the ball well on seam and posts routes.. Like most Tight Ends, he knows how to utilize his body in order to shield off defenders. Shows a great feel for zone coverage–knows when to sit in an empty pocket Also an excellent pass catcher while on the run. Does a nice job of catching the ball cleanly, allowing him to make plays after the catch.
Intangibles: Winner of the 2010 Disney Spirit Award as the most inspirational player in college football. Williams has as strong of character as any player in the draft. Coaches will not have to worry about what he does when away from the field. Also very active in his community, volunteering with the Big Brother-Big Sister program, Fayetteville Boys and Girls Club, and the Children’s Hospital. Great character individual.
Overall stock: Tight Ends like Dallas Clark, Antonio Gates, and Chris Cooley have paved the way for the smaller, ahtletic, quicker Tight Ends. Teams are looking to add additional playmakers who can cause mismatches on the field. Williams does just that. He also adds some versatility. With his size, teams may look to use him in some Full Back situations, causing further match up issues. The further we move into this decade, the more the Tight Ends will look like Williams. He is the new breed. With his character and playmaking ability, he should expect to hear his name called on day two.
NFL Comparison: Dallas Clark and Aaron Hernandez