Duke Williams, SS

School: Nevada  |  Conference: MWC
Hometown: Reno, NV
Prospect Ranking Full Prospect Rankings
OverallPositionProjected Rnd
15665
Mock Draft Full Mock Drafts
RangBruglerPriscoJudge
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Workout Results
402010Bench
4.482.551.5813
VerticalBroadShuttleCone
37.5010'6"4.00-
Vitals
Height
5-11
Arm Length
32
Weight
203 lbs.
Hand Length
9 3/4
Latest News
03/17/2013 - 2013 Nevada Pro Day: Duke Williams, FS (5-10 7/8, 201) - Williams ran the three-cone drill in 7.19 seconds, and then stood on the rest of his numbers from the NFL Scouting Combine. - Gil Brandt, NFL.com

  • Full Duke Williams News Wire
  • Overview
    Williams may go overlooked for several rounds due to his slight build and lower-profile school, but he has all the tools to be an immediate contributor from either of the two safety spots.

    He's solid in coverage, brings rare versatility in being able to line up at corner or in the slot, and his "plus" instincts against the run are some of the best in the entire class. A second-round talent with impact starter upside who could end up being the steal of the draft at the position

    Analysis
    STRENGTHS: Quick, agile and explosive athlete with versatility to play multiple positions in the defensive backfield. Displays early recognition against the run, and exhibits an explosive first step to the ball. Despite possessing a somewhat slight frame, plays with a level of physicality that you expect to see out of much bigger athletes. Displays fluidity in reverse and quick hips in transition.

    Takes good angles against the run, and does a good job of maintaining footing through contact from bigger, stronger blockers. Good zone awareness and route anticipation underneath. Possesses a second gear to chase receivers down from behind. Does not wait for the play to get to the second level before closing, and displays big-time aggression up near the line of scrimmage. Is fluid and agile laterally, and does a good job of mirroring underneath routes in man coverage. Above average straight-line speed.

    WEAKNESSES: Doesn't display the greatest of ball skills or hands. Susceptible to play-action fakes, and shows some indecisiveness in zone, when there are multiple receivers in his vicinity. Doesn't always wrap his target up, and relies more on the hit. Will drop his head and lead with his shoulder at times, both as a tackler and when engaging blockers. There may be concerns about his durability, considering his lean build and physical style of play.

    COMPARES TO: Jeron Johnson, S, Seattle Seahawks - Like Johnson, Williams may go overlooked for several rounds due to his slight build and lower-profile school, but he has all the tools to be an immediate contributor from either of the two safety spots.

    He's better in coverage than Johnson, brings rare versatility in being able to line up at corner or in the slot, and his "plus" instincts against the run are some of the best in the entire class. A second-round talent with impact starter upside who could end up being the steal of the draft at the position, between rounds 4 and 6.

    --Derek Stephens

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