11/11/22
Derek Williams finds form after lengthy PCL injury
After being sidelined for the bulk of the regular season with a nagging PCL injury, Williams returned to action for Westgate’s regular-season finale, and finally reared back into form about a quarter into the playoff opener. One of the most physically imposing defenders in the country, the 6-foot-2, 190-pound Williams worked primarily in the box to eliminate the outside running game. Williams has outstanding range when playing in center field, so moving closer to the line of scrimmage only added to his ability to punish ball carriers and get active in the backfield, too. The Texas commit was exceptional against the run and is a tempo-setter for his defense. A healthy Williams will be a sight to watch for the remainder of the postseason. The 2023 class is loaded at the safety position with several five-stars already including Williams, who reminds me a ton of Jamal Adams with his downhill playing ability. His physicality is a little different than some of the other safeties in this crop.