Scouting Profile: USC DT Leonard Williams
Get an in-depth look at the top prospects in this year's draft class leading up to the NFL draft, which takes place from April 30 to May 2 in Chicago.
To view our complete list of 2015 prospect profiles, tap here.
Leonard Williams
Position: DT/DE
School: USC
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-5
Weight: 302 lbs.
Age: 20
Combine Results
| Event | Result |
|---|---|
| 40-yd Dash | 4.97 sec |
| Bench Press | N/A |
| Vertical Jump | 29.5 inches |
| Broad Jump | 8-foot-10 |
| 3-Cone Drill | 7.59 sec |
| 20-yd Shuttle | 4.53 sec |
Strengths
- Possesses a rare combination of power and quickness, allowing him to contribute at a number of different positions across either an odd- or even-base defensive front.
- Demonstrates high-level awareness as a run defender, easily finding the ball-carrier and disengaging from blocks to make the play.
- Was highly productive in his two-gap role defending the run on early downs, but also has the necessary burst to get up field and become an extremely disruptive interior pass-rush presence at the next level.
- Consistently plays with a high motor, often outworking his opponent to make the play.
- Difficult to block because of his incredible power. Should only continue to get stronger and learn to better use his strength in the NFL.
Weaknesses
- Often appears slow off the snap, but most likely due to scheme and his placement in early down read-and-react roles.
- Overall technique will need refining to best complement his natural physical abilities.
- Inconsistent with his pad level off the snap, occasionally getting too upright as a pass-rusher.
NFL Player Comparison: Darnell Dockett
Williams has drawn comparisons to a number of the league's most dominant and versatile interior linemen, but current San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Darnell Dockett may be the most fitting of them all. Dockett has put together an impressive 10-year career in the NFL thus far, with his consistent play earning him three trips to the Pro Bowl.
Like Dockett, Williams should be a force against both the run and the pass at the next level, with the ability to do so at any number of positions on the defensive line.
Ideal Fit: Tennessee Titans
The best defensive player in this draft, it shouldn't be long before Williams hears his name called in the opening round. Should the Titans opt against selecting a quarterback, selecting the USC standout represents their best option to add the kind of elite talent they desire. Williams would play the five-technique defensive end in Tennessee's 3-4 front, pairing with Jurrell Casey to form one of the NFL's best young tandems at the position.
Draft Projection: Round 1 (Top 5)