Life is full of decisions and choices. As human beings, we should never judge a book by its cover because one hasn’t opened the book to read what’s in it. People don’t have a choice of where they want to grow up at; however, individuals do have control over the direction of their lives and how they want others to view them.
As for the Ravens rookie outside linebacker, Tim Williams, his prayer was answered by God to play in the National Football League despite the red flags he had back in college. Thanks to Baltimore Ravens general manager, Ozzie Newsome, who played at Alabama under legendary head coach Paul W. “Bear” Bryant, Williams is now part of an organization that prides itself on winning, hard work and family.
Williams was definitely a top-15 talent, but ended up being snatched in the third round.
The Crimson Tide standout admitted he had serious off the field issues, in which he failed multiple drug tests at Alabama and was arrested last September on carrying a gun without a permit. Even though he carries some baggage, Newsome has faith in Williams and is so excited to have him as part of the Ravens’ organization.
Per Sean Grogan of cecildaily.com — Maryland — Newsome said Williams was “very upfront about his issues.”
“At the end of the day, when we were talking with him on the phone, he understands that. He will accept that challenge as to not allow that to happen, but I can’t sit here and guarantee it,” Newsome said.
Cleveland Browns rookie defensive end Myles Garrett was the No. 1 pass rusher in the draft, but Williams may be the true gem of all edge rushers. With his size (6-4/244) and speed, Williams may end up having a solid rookie campaign that could lead to being him Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2017.
After a solid career at Alabama, where he recorded 19.5 sacks and 28.5 tackles for loss in the last two seasons, the Louisiana native is ready for the next level. The Ravens finished seventh overall last year in total defense, but wants to improve its secondary as it allowed over 232.8 yards per game through the air.
Getting Eric Weddle solves that issues; nevertheless, having a pass rusher like Williams creates more turnover opportunities in not allowing quarterbacks to throw passes on time. Now that he’s with former Tide teammates C.J. Mosley and Marlon Humphrey, you can expect for Williams to be grounded at Baltimore.
Michael Cannady is a contributor for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter at: @mike_can21
