It wanted to draft the next Terrell Suggs, but after thorough observations in rookie minicamp and collecting information from media outlets, it appears as though the Baltimore Ravens have something much bigger in third-round pick and former University of Alabama outside linebacker Tim Williams.
AL.com was first to an inside story with ex-Tide head coach Walter Perkins in December of 2016, on whom Williams reminded him of in the National Football League. ESPN’s Jamison Hensley caught wind of the report a week ago, as Perkins compared the Louisiana native to former New York Giants linebacker and NFL legend – Lawrence Taylor.
Taylor, who played 12 years (1981-93) in the league, was a force at No. 56.
He accomplished two Super Bowl championships, 10 Pro Bowl and first team All-Pro selections, three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, the 1986 NFL’s Most Valuable Player and 1986 NFL sacks leader.
“Williams, right now, is an impact player that can do things Lawrence did,” Perkins said. “How he comes off the edge, affects the pass protection, getting to the quarterback, chasing him down. You couldn’t run away from Lawrence because he had the speed to chase you down. Williams has that kind of speed and he plays with that kind of passion.”
Texas A&M standout Myles Garrett was regarded as the premiere edge rusher in this year’s draft class; however, Williams turned in an eye-popping 19.5 sacks and 28.5 tackles for loss in the last two seasons.
The 6-foot-3, 244-pounder was an integral part of the Tide’s Southeastern Conference championships in 2015 and 2016, and its national championship in 2015. With his explosive first step, Williams expects to harass Andy Dalton, Ben Roethlisberger, Tom Brady and any other quarterback that crosses his path when the Ravens’ defense comes to town.
Stephen M. Smith is a managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
