Tim Williams lands with Ravens in 3rd round of 2017 NFL draft

Tim Williams, the pass-rushing specialist out of Alabama, has been selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the 78th pick in the 2017 NFL draft — pairing him with second-round selection Tyus Bowser.

The former Crimson Tide linebacker has drawn Elvis Dumervil comparisons, primarily serving as a rotational edge-rushing specialist. Williams has the speed and arsenal of pass-rushing moves to become a superstar at the next level, but likely fell in the draft primarily because of his admission of failed drug tests at Tuscaloosa.

Williams was a highly productive pass-rushing specialist throughout his four years with Alabama. Totaling 19.5 sacks over the past two seasons in limited snaps due to depth, the linebacker was a difference-maker for the Crimson Tide’s No. 1 scoring defense.

His ability to rush the passer was largely why Alabama was as successful as it was during his time, and his addition should bolster the Ravens’ pass rush in short time.

Speed

Williams’ speed off the edge is his marquee trait. He has a lightning-quick first step out of his stance, which is evident on tape. He also turned in a solid effort at the NFL Combine - his 4.68-second 40-yard dash ranked in the 83rd percentile and his 124-inch broad jump ranked in the 91st percentile among players at his position, per Mock Draftable.

He also happens to be one of the best in his class at bending around the edge, which is a huge testament to Williams’ control and utilization of his speed rather than just an ability to run in a straight line. Per Pro Football Focus, Williams averaged a pressure once every 4.9 pass rushing attempts. The linebacker’s first step and change-of-direction abilities make him a solid prospect and a malleable edge defender who could become a star under the right coaching staff.

Pass-rushing arsenal

Williams defies the “speed rusher” label, boasting an array of pass-rushing moves on the edge. The linebacker will admit he’s no bull-rusher, but he frequently wins battles with finesse moves. That, in addition to Williams’ pure speed, makes him a nightmare for opponents — especially those who don’t have quick feet.

Williams can do more than just rush the passer, however. He’s shown the ability to shoot gaps, make plays against the run, cover and shed blocks - all with limited reps. There’s still plenty of room for Williams to grow in these areas, but his potential to become much more than a one-trick pony as a speed rusher makes the former Alabama linebacker a great value for the Ravens.

While at Alabama, the linebacker failed multiple drug tests and was arrested on a gun charge. That could be part of the reason why Williams fell to the third round.

On the field, there are concerns as well. While Williams has the potential to become a quality edge defender, his lack of size and relative experience leave a lot to be desired. Strength isn’t Williams’ forte, so the Ravens might want to see him put on some weight. Until or unless he puts on weight, Williams may be confined to a role as a situational pass-rusher.