Evan Williams 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Background: 

• First-Team All-Mountain-West (2021)

• Older brother, Bennett, is a safety for Oregon
• Three-year contributor for Bulldogs

System: 

• Scheme tendencies: 4-2-6 Scheme
• 2022 projected role: Developmental nickel with some versatility to play free safety in split safety looks

Pros: Evan Williams is a hyper-productive defensive back and the heart and soul of the Bulldogs’ defense. He has been a difference-maker since his freshman season and was recently named first-team all-conference for his work in 2021. Williams primarily aligns as a nickel in the Bulldogs’ defense, playing in the slot while also having reps at free safety in split safety looks. Williams is a very instinctual football player who has a nose for the football. In the run game, Williams is quick to diagnose runs and triggers downhill with urgency.  He plays with outstanding energy and temperament and will chase plays from the backside or from down the field. He is an extremely tough and physical player who will never shy away from contact. In the passing game, Williams’ instincts show very well in zone coverage. He is able to read route patterns and the eyes of the quarterback, allowing him to get a jump on the route and make plays on the football. A very smooth and fluid mover, Williams is able to mirror in and out of breaks, open his hips, and run down the field when covering vertically. He flashes excellent ball skills and is a threat with the ball in his hands. He’s best underneath where his quickness and anticipation allow him to gobble up quick-hitting routes. 

Cons: Evan Williams is an interesting player. I want to love him as I love his energy and play style, but he just has too many negative plays for me to buy in. He takes very poor angles to the football, allowing cut-back and open lanes. He comes downhill in a hurry but is often out of control, failing to break down and missing a ton of tackles as a result. He is an undersized defender who will lose in battles of strength and size. He struggles to take bigger backs down and needs his teammates to rally to him. Williams is at a severe disadvantage at the catch point as he doesn’t have the length or strength to dislodge the football. The further the play is down the field, the worse things get for Williams as receivers can pull away from him vertically.

Evan Williams NFL Draft Scouting Report by Brentley Weissman