Penn State's Profile for Derrick Williams

#1 recruit out of Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Maryland. Chose Penn State over many other top programs that also greatly sought out his services. Lightning fast player who leaves as one of the Nittany Lion's all time greats.

Did not run as expected at the Combine, and that seemed to throw off everything else he did.

LATE NOTE: Ran better at the Penn State Pro Day on 3/18/09 (4.50 range) but reportedly still struggled some with catching the ball with consistency. Measured a tad shorter and heavier than we expected. Displayed a 9'7" broad jump, a 4.21 short shuttle, a 6.96 3-cone drill and managed 18 bench reps.

Always a candidate for the Pontiac Game Changing Performance, Williams is an electric guy when he is right. Every time he touches the ball, he is a threat to make a big play. Fast and very elusive and maintains his speed even when making moves or shifting directions. Great receiver on the edge. Runs solid routes and has decent hands. Can catch the ball all over the field but is much better utilized towards the sideline, making screen passes a frequent choice. His frequent long punt returns and 2 for touchdowns always sparked his team. In the NFL, he will play everything as I don't think he is a natural wide receiver, but he will play tons of special teams, and whoever drafts him better have plays specifically designed to utilize him in their offense.

As I already mentioned, I just don't see him playing receiver regularly. Average hands and average speed for NFL wideout. However, in the age of specialized offenses, and when special teams has proved so vital, Williams will still be a very useful player. Also needs to work on his blocking outside and his route running.

Williams is a great Devin Hester type pickup in the 3rd or 4th round. He won't be a go to option on offense but he is a play maker who will give your offense and special teams a boost.

Your Projected NFL Draft Round: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Undrafted

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