Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Leonard Williams (USC) - 2015 NFL Draft Pick #6 by NYJ

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Leonard Williams (USC) - 2015 NFL Draft

Position: Defensive Tackle/Defensive End
College: University of Southern California (USC)
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 302 lbs

Overview

Leonard Williams was widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2015 NFL Draft. He showcased exceptional athleticism, strength, and versatility during his college career at USC, making him a coveted pick for teams looking to bolster their defensive lines.

Strengths

• Versatile Skill Set: Capable of playing multiple positions along the defensive line, including both defensive tackle and defensive end.
• Explosive First Step: Demonstrated a quick burst off the line of scrimmage, allowing him to penetrate opposing offensive lines effectively.
• Strong Run Defender: Excellent at shedding blocks and making plays in the backfield, contributing to his team's run defense.
• Pass-Rush Ability: Possesses the ability to collapse the pocket, making him a threat to quarterbacks, evidenced by his ability to record sacks and tackles for loss.
• High Football IQ: Shows good understanding of offensive schemes and can read plays effectively, often adjusting to counteract opposing strategies.

Weaknesses

• Inconsistency: At times, he struggled with consistency in his performance, particularly in games against top competition.
• Conditioning: There were concerns about his stamina and ability to maintain peak performance throughout an entire game, especially in longer drives.
• Pass Rush Technique: While he had the ability to rush the passer, there were questions about the refinement of his pass-rushing moves and overall technique.

Projected Draft Position

Leonard Williams was projected to be a top-5 pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, with many analysts expecting him to be a cornerstone player for whichever team selected him. His blend of size, speed, and skill made him one of the most sought-after talents in that draft class.

Conclusion

Leonard Williams was viewed as a franchise-defining player with the potential to impact games immediately. His combination of physical tools and football intelligence made him an ideal candidate for teams looking to strengthen their defensive front. Many experts believed that he would transition well to the NFL and become a key contributor for years to come.