Quinnen Williams
NEW YORK JETS
| Position | College | Years in the NFL |
|---|---|---|
| Defensive Line | Alabama | 3 |
Demonstrates Excellence on The Field
Third-year defensive lineman Quinnen Williams has been a leader and role model on and off the field throughout his tenure with the Jets. Since entering the league as the third overall pick in the 2019 NFL draft, Quinnen has recorded 101 tackles, 13.0 sacks – the most by a Jet since 2019 - 28 quarterback hits, four passes defensed, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. Despite missing the final two weeks of the 2020 season with a concussion and spending the bulk of the offseason rehabbing a broken toe, Quinnen did not miss a beat, registering 3.5 sacks through the first five games this season, the most on the team and the third most amongst interior defensive lineman across the league. Moreover, this season, Quinnen has registered 14 pressures from the interior defensive line position for a pressure rate of 12.5%, the fifth-best among all interior defenders with at least 100 rushing snaps.
On top of wreaking havoc in the opponent's backfield, Quinnen is a mentor for a Jets defense that leads the league in snaps from rookie and second-year players (1,344 in five games). He can consistently be found practicing fundamentals, watching the film, and helping younger teammates adjust to life in the NFL. Quinnen thrives in the Jets defense, showcasing elite athleticism, dependability, and execution, all while continuing to serve his community.
Demonstrates Dedication and Commitment to Community Efforts this Year
As an ambassador for the American Cancer Society, stemming from losing his mother to breast cancer, Quinnen took an active role in the Jets Crucial Catch week in 2021. On Tuesday, September 28, he virtually visited (due to COVID restrictions) Goryeb Children's Hospital to speak with pediatric cancer patients and other children receiving treatment. Quinnen sent them Jets hats, pre-autographed footballs and invited each child to attend a Jets game when they were feeling better.
Before the Crucial Catch game on Sunday, October 3, Quinnen met with five Brest Cancer Survivors with his brother Quincy during pre-game warm-ups to show his support for their fight.
Demonstrates Dedication and Commitment to Community Efforts in Years Past
Quinnen created the Quinnen Williams Foundation to give back to the community by tackling poverty and unfairness. Each year The Quinnen Williams Foundation spreads $50,000 of holiday joy amongst 100 single-parent families selected personally by Quinnen in the Birmingham, AL area. Quinnen plans to expand this initiative to the New Jersey area.
Demonstrates Consistency in Positive Character and Models a Lifestyle of Giving Back
Through his foundation, Quinnen created The Williams Scholarship (TWS) grant to provide financial aid to outstanding, low-income minorities to help offset tuition costs, housing, food, and book expenses. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to Birmingham Metropolitan leaders, with anticipation of assisting students in maximizing their full potential. Selected Scholars will receive $3,000 of funding.
On Friday nights during the season, Quinnen and his wife Maranda attend high school football games in the community to decompress from a long week and enjoy the sport that gave so much to him. Quinnen does not announce his visits; he just shows up to enjoy the game and support youth football.
Quinnen received the 2020 FAITH IN ACTION AWARDÂ at the BET Super Bowl Gospel Celebration. Past award recipients include Russell Wilson and Von Miller.
