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Alabama rusher Tim Williams speaks at combine about off-the-field issues
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Tim Williams is one of the best pure pass rushers in the entire 2017 NFL Draft.
Hailing from Alabama, he was second on the team this past year in sacks (9.0) and tackles-for-loss (16.0). Williams has a first-step few can match. Additionally, he offers terrific versatility as a hybrid outside linebacker/defensive end.
On Saturday, Williams stood in front of the media and discussed some of the perceived red-flags surrounding his draft stock.
He was arrested for carrying a pistol without a permit last September. The driver in the car also was in possession of marijuana.
Alabama LB Tim Williams acknowledges failed drug tests. Would not say how many. That's part of the off-field concerns on him.#NFLCombine
— Chase Goodbread (@ChaseGoodbread) March 4, 2017
Williams made it a goal to be as transparent as possible. This is what he had to say on the matter:
“(I’m a) young player making decisions that I grew from. That’s what life is about — being a man on and off the field, owning up to your mistakes. Everyone makes them. I’m not here dancing around and joking. I know I’m here with something to prove. I’m obviously behind the eight-ball, so I’m here to prove not only to myself but to every organization that if they get me, they’re going to get the best player here.”
I’m going in and being completely honest. This is a billion-dollar industry. They’ve got all their homework and they know everything about you. You can’t go in there and just be dishonest, because a first impression is a last impression. … So far they’ve respected me for that.”
The maturity displayed by the defensive player is quite impressive. From a talent standpoint, there’s no question Williams can be an impact player from the get-go.
However, it remains to be seen as to how these events will affect his draft positioning.
