While last year's NFL draft had one player at the top of everyone's draft board, the picture in 2015 is a bit foggier. USC's Leonard Williams is the player most scouts have on top, but there are still plenty of mock drafts that have other players going earlier.
Why is Williams less of a sure thing than South Carolina's Jadeveon Clowney? What are his biggest assets, and what will he need to work on as a rookie? Let's take a look...
STRENGTHS
- Size. Williams is 6'5 and just over 290 pounds, and he has the frame and physical strength to bully his way past offensive linemen as a result.
- Athleticism. Despite his imposing frame, Williams is a shockingly quick player with excellent burst and acceleration off his mark.
- Motor. Williams doesn't quit on plays or get gassed easily, and there are zero concerns about his work ethic. This is highlighted in his excellent pursuit skills.
- Technique. While many larger players get by on size alone at the college level, Williams is a surprisingly technical player who can use his hands and positioning as well as brute force.
- Versatility. Over his last three seasons at USC, Williams played in three completely different defensive schemes under defensive coordinators Ed Orgeron (who runs a 4-3), Clancy Pendergast (who runs a 5-2) and Justin Wilcox (who runs a slightly modified 3-4). Williams never missed a beat along the way, and never looked hampered by the system he found himself playing in. He can slot in at DE or DT, which means no team is going to pass him up because he 'doesn't fit' their scheme.
WEAKNESSES
- Consistency. There were a few games over the past three seasons where Williams just never really turned it on, and he can sometimes get complacent against inferior competition. That won't fly in the NFL.
- Injuries. While he wasn't as injury-prone as Jadeveon Clowney, Williams was hampered by sporadic shoulder and ankle problems. He generally chose to play through his problems, though, which scouts love.
THE VERDICT
Williams is a rare talent who can assert himself on games like few other players in recent college history. His physicality is reminiscent of Clowney and J.J. Watt, but he'll need to get rid of his on/off switch if he wants to reach Watt's level. He recently told reporters he wants to play for the Oakland Raiders, but it seems unlikely he'll still be available when their pick rolls around at #4.
MORE:
5 Things To Know About Leonard Williams, Projected #1 Pick In The 2015 NFL Draft
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