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Tyler Baker-Williams brings versatility, skill to the NC State defense

On3 imageby:Ethan McDowell•08/25/22•

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NC State defensive back Tyler Baker-Williams. (Photo by Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)

Tyler Baker-Williams arrived at NC State in 2018 as an athlete full of potential and ready to take on any role needed in order to contribute. Injuries to the Wolfpack resulted in the now-star defensive back making his debut at running back, and he fumbled during his first game as a freshman.  

In the years since that moment, Baker-Williams switched to the secondary and developed himself into one of the best nickels in the nation. His collegiate career has been a long but worthwhile journey.

“I talk with my teammates about it,” Baker-Williams said. “[We] talk about how far we’ve came, how far I’ve came, from those experiences. It made me a better person. It made me the person I am today, going through all that stuff.”

After starting his career on offense for the Wolfpack during the program’s 24-13 win over James Madison, he sat out the next five games as he moved to the defensive backfield. Over the next four seasons with the Wolfpack, Baker-Williams has played in 40 games, made 136 total tackles and intercepted three passes. 

The All-ACC defensive back said his versatility made him a good fit for nickel, and he shows that ability constantly, showing off his pass-rushing skills before dropping into air-tight coverage against a speedy slot receiver one play after. Baker-Willimas oftentimes draws tough coverage assignments— a welcomed challenge for the super senior. 

His mentality on the field is a reflection of the culture he coaching staff has created, Baker-Williams said. Through detailed preparation and attention to the details, Baker-Williams is ready to match up against the opposing team’s top receiver if needed. 

Over the summer, the defensive back said he improved his blitzing along with his hand placement and technique in man coverage. 

“I really honed in on those things this camp and during the summer,” Baker-Williams said. 

Defensive coordinator Tony Gibson utilizes Baker-Williams’ skill set in a variety of different ways within his defensive scheme. The defensive back has been a consistent presence in the secondary ever since Gibson arrived at NC State in 2019, and the coach knows how important Baker-Williams is to the Wolfpack’s success. 

“He’s got tremendous man skills,” Gibson said. “We use him a lot of different ways in our blitzes. He fits the run game for us. Usually he’s matched up on everybody’s best wideout. He’s special in our scheme and what we do.”

After his senior season abruptly ended when UCLA withdrew from the Holiday Bowl, Baker-Williams, coming off of an All-ACC honorable mention season, faced a tough decision. Many of his teammates who could have declared for the NFL draft last year opted to remain in Raleigh one more year. Baker-Williams decided to join them for one last run. 

“[I have] been through a lot with those guys,” Baker-Williams said. “The ups and downs. They’ve been there for me through the deepest moments, the saddest moments, so I appreciate those guys. I’ll do anything for them. That’s my whole reason for coming back.”

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