• NFL Network
  • En Español
  • Mobile
Photo of Derrick Williams
Grade
?
  • 4.68 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 15 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 33.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 6'0" Height
  • 194LBS. Weight

Overview

Williams' excellent athleticism and NFL body may make him a potential playmaker at the next level, but his inconsistent production makes scouts wonder what type of player he will become. His 40 catches for 451 yards and three touchdowns in 2008 are not those of an elite receiver. However, he also ran for 226 yards and three scores and returned 655 yards and three touchdowns on the year, earning first team All-Big 10 honors. Williams showed that all-purpose game throughout his four-year career and should continue it at the next level. Had an arm span of 31 inches and a hand span of 9 1/4 inches at the combine.

Analysis

Strengths

Positives: Good height with a strong upper body. Quick off the line, reaching top speed within a couple of steps. Uses moves and his hands to get off press coverage. Lines up in the slot and outside. Finds holes in the end zone and presents a target. Typically solid hands, catching the ball away from his frame. Cognizant of the sidelines, can tightrope or tiptoe to stay in-bounds. Good hands on returns, catching punts over his shoulder if necessary. Retains the catch after a big hit. Excellent straight-line speed and quickness, able to make the first defender miss. Takes direct snaps and handoffs, and is willing to run tough inside. Shows nice vision and toughness after the catch, as a returner and getting the occasional carry as a running back. Very willing blocker downfield, using his strength, good angles and sound technique to keep safeties and corners out of the play. Team captain as a senior, vocal leader in practice and during games. Deflects credit to his teammates after big games. Stayed positive leader while not putting up huge numbers. Negatives: Was never "the guy" at Penn State, so it's not clear if he's a elite receiver. Is not have the short-area quickness or elusiveness as most of the top NFL returners. Needs to work a bit on his footwork coming in and out of routes. Does not always separate from defenders as his timed speed would indicate. Concentration lapses occasionally when trying to make a move after the catch.
×
Grade Title Draft (Round) Description
96-100 Future Hall of Famer Top Pick A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95 Immediate Starter 1st An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84 Eventual Starter 2nd-3rd A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69 Draftable Player 4th-7th A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49 Free Agent UDFA A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.

© 2013 NFL Enterprises LLC. NFL and the NFL shield design are registered trademarks of the National Football League.The team names, logos and uniform designs are registered trademarks of the teams indicated. All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League. NFL footage © NFL Productions LLC. PRIVACY POLICY | Terms & Conditions

NFL News
CONTENT
15