2013 NFL Draft: Pittsburgh Steelers select Samford DT Nick Williams in 7th round
By Matt Shetler
The Pittsburgh Steelers closed out a busy 2013 NFL Draft by adding depth to their defensive line.
With their final of nine selections, the Steelers selected defensive tackle Nick Williams out of Samford.
Williams was a two-year starter at Samford after playing only one year of high school football.
Feb 25, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Purdue Boilermakers defensive lineman Kawann Short (39), and Samford defensive lineman Nick Williams (51), and Connecticut Huskies defensive lineman Trevardo Williams (54) pose for a photo after finishing their on the field workouts during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
He’s big at 6’3″, 310 pounds and can play in either as a defensive end in the 3-4 scheme or defensive tackle in a 4-3 scheme if necessary.
His biggest asset is his explosiveness as Williams gets off the line of scrimmage quickly and is athletic enough to chase the ball-carrier down.
In 2011, he became a full-time starter, and played in every game. He had 23 tackles (three for loss), and two sacks. Williams had his best year in his redshirt senior season. He tallied 31 tackles (eight for loss), and six sacks, being named to the All-Southern Conference second-team in 2011, and first-team in 2012.
From looking at the film, Williams looks like he plays too high at times and doesn’t use his hands enough to get off blocks. Those things are teachable though.
Early in his NFL career, Williams will likely be used as a rotational lineman. But a few years down the road, he could prove to be a late-round gem with starting-caliber talent.
His size and athleticism give him a chance to stay in the league and since the Steelers need depth, he may have the chance to make the team out of camp.
At this point in the draft, it makes sense to take a chance on someone who has a ton of upside, which Williams certainly does.