WR, Alabama
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 189 lbs
Class: Junior
As a four-star recruit in the 2019 class, Williams committed to Ohio State over offers from the likes of Alabama and Georgia. He barely played through his first two seasons, logging just 15 receptions for 266 yards. He subsequently transferred to Alabama and had a breakout 2021 season. Williams became the Crimson Tide’s leading receiver and led the SEC in yards and touchdowns on his way to earning First Team All-Conference honours.
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Strengths
The first thing that you notice when you watch Williams’ tape is his speed. He is one of the fastest receivers in all of college football and should comfortably run a sub 4.4 second 40-yard dash. Defenses will have to account for him on every play and he has had a tonne of success as a deep threat this season. His 631 yards and eight touchdowns on deep passes rank seventh and third respectively amongst all Power Five receivers. Williams joins Ja’Marr Chase and Mike Evans as the only receivers in SEC history to average 20+ yards on 50+ catches.
Williams isn’t just a pure speed threat though. He also displays some nice technique as a route runner. He has ideal sink in his hips and has the stop-start quickness you look for in a wide receiver prospect. This allows him to create consistent separation at the top of his routes. This ability to win at all three levels of the field is hugely valuable.
Despite only one year as a starter, Williams already showcases intelligence as route runner. There were numerous examples on tape where he adjusted his routes in response to the technique of a defender. His ability to vary his route pacing to maximise separation was particularly impressive. Teams will also like Williams’ ability to utilise subtle movements and head fakes to create open throws for his quarterback.
Another strength to Williams’ game is his ability to create in the open field. His burst makes him a real asset in the short passing game and he consistently maximises yardage after the catch. His average of 9.4 yards after the catch ranked third amongst all Power Five receivers this season. This has also translated into success on special teams, averaging 35.3 yards per kick return and scoring two touchdowns.
Weaknesses
The main concern with Williams will be his play strength. At 6’2″ and 189 lbs he is a little undersized for an NFL boundary receiver. There were times where he struggled against more physical corners, something he will face more of in the NFL. Adding some more weight to his frame would ease his transition to the pro game.
The other issue with Williams is his hands. Whilst he didn’t have a major problem with drops he is a little passive at the catch point. He displays a tendency to body catch and there were issues when he was asked to work outside his frame. He is also not particularly effective in contested catch situations.
Bottom Line
Williams’ combination of athletic traits and high-level production in the SEC are bound to turn heads. He has the potential to be an excellent deep threat in the NFL, whilst also adding value as a YAC weapon in the short passing game. There are still some concerns about his play strength and hands, but he can be an immediate impact player as a rookie.
Ideal role: Deep threat in a vertical passing attack
Round projection: 1st round
