There's a very good possibility that Williams will be gone at five by the time the Bucs are picking but it doesn't hurt to highlight the Alabama defensive lineman and how strong of a prospect he is. In a very deep defensive line class this year, Williams still manages to stand out because of his versatility and penetration skills.
The versatility part is key, because although he probably fits best as a three-technique tackle in a 4-3, his speed and ability to move laterally could help him translate into five-technique tackle in a 3-4. Either way, Defensive Coordinator Todd Bowles has said the Bucs won't be a two-gap team, so Williams would translate and provide depth up front while he gets acclimated to the NFL level.
In college, Williams started all 15 games for the Crimson Tide in 2018 as a red-shirt sophomore. He totaled 70 combined tackles as an interior lineman and brought down the quarterback seven times. He won the Outland Trophy, given to the nation's best interior lineman after garnering unanimous first-team All-American honors from all five of the major outlets. Williams was also a finalist for both the Bronco Nagurski Trophy and Bednarik Award, given to the best defensive player in the nation.
His first career start came in the Tide's first game of the 2018 season against Louisville, where he tied for the team lead in tackles with six, 3.5 of which were for a loss. He added a pass breakup and a quarterback pressure, as well.
View photos of Alabama's DL Quinnen Williams.
NFL.com has Williams not only graded as an instant started but with a 6.70, has a chance to become a Pro Bowl-caliber player. Lance Zierlein touts his adjust his hand and body position according to the blocking scheme and leverage he creates on blockers as some of his strengths.
"Despite having just a single season of headline production, his instincts, quickness and athleticism are projectable play traits that should allow for continued production against both the run and pass on the next level," Zierlein said. "Williams is an instant starter with Pro Bowl potential."
