NFL Draft Profile: Defensive Tackle Quinnen Williams of Alabama

Today we take a closer look at Alabama defensive tackle and projected top five overall selection Quinnen Williams and examine how he can be a great fit along the 49ers defensive line.

Greetings Faithful! It’s time for another scouting report. Today we return to the defensive line and take a closer look at Alabama defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. The redshirt sophomore is a blue-chip elite talent who has skyrocketed up draft boards and is all but guaranteed to be selected within the top five picks of the 2019 NFL Draft.

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The San Francisco 49ers just so happen to own one of those five picks. At second overall, only the Arizona Cardinals or any club that trades up into the first overall pick would stand between the 49ers and Williams. With all that said, let’s examine and learn more about Williams and why he would be a great fit for the 49ers.

Combine Results:

40 Time: 4.83
Vertical Jump: 30.5”
Broad Jump: 112.0”

Measurables:

Height: 6’3”
Weight: 303 lbs.
Hands: 9 5/8”
Arms: 33 ¼”

Summary:

Quinnen Williams made quite the name for himself at Alabama in 2018. He was a finalist for the Bronko Nagurski and Bednarik Awards as well as the Outland Trophy. He was named an Associated Press All-American as well as a first-team All-SEC selection. He recorded 70 tackles with 18.5 tackles for a loss, 7 sacks, and 1 safety. In other words, Williams is probably considered the best defensive linesman in the country and perhaps the best overall player the 2019 NFL Draft class has to offer. Quinnen Williams was a relentless force along the defensive line for the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2018.

Has an outstanding first step and initial burst off the snap. Has a high motor and uses his hands to generate power and push blockers into a backwards pedal along the line of scrimmage.

Williams has a variety of rush moves and techniques that he utilizes effectively throughout the duration of a game. This can cause blockers to get off balance. Williams often requires double team attention (which doesn’t often stop him), that allows his fellow defensive lineman to find holes and gaps to create disruption and breakup plays, particularly on passing downs. Williams plays with a physical, bull-rush mentality.

His speed and athleticism are off the charts. Explodes out of his stance and makes initial contact immediately. Will often win the one to one matchup, and uses his physical strength to his advantage. Williams has a natural blend of power and flexibility. Gifted with strong football instincts and anticipation.

There is a little concern about his length, particularly his arms. However, his handwork technique has been clean and superb throughout the course of 2018. Forget that he was a redshirt sophomore…Williams was asked to switch to nose tackle, and so, he performed at this elite level out of his natural position. Overall, Williams has incredible body control, devastating speed, and overwhelming strength who is a threat on every down he plays.

Is Quinnen Williaims a fit for the 49ers?

Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Let’s put it this way…Williams without question is a fit for all 32 NFL clubs. His talent and abilities would instantly upgrade any defensive line and I fully expect Williams to be a week 1 starter wherever he lands. Should that destination be San Francisco, then I fully expect Williams to line up with DeForest Buckner along the interior, and create a violent and disruptive duo. By adding a talent of Williams’, the team’s run defense and ability to pressure the quarterback will go up significantly. This in turn will also help Dee Ford and Arik Armstead at the bookends of the line. Should the Arizona Cardinals draft Kyler Murray then the ultimate debate of Quinnen Williams vs Nick Bosa will be answered once and for all (Unless the 49ers trade out of the 2^nd overall pick!). Is defensive tackle a pressing need for the 49ers? No. Would anyone seriously give the 49ers a bad review if they select Williams…I hope not. He is the real deal, a blue-chip day 1 starter, and someone who would instantly upgrade the 49ers defensive line. I know many fans of tired of the defensive tackle picks, but Williams will be the best one yet if he is in fact the pick on April 25^th.

What are YOUR thoughts on Quinnen Williams? Is he at the top of your big board? If not, who are you hoping the 49ers select should they stay at number 2 overall? Please share in the comments below!