As former University of Alabama standout, Jonathan Allen did for him, Quinnen Williams is passing the torch now that he has officially declared for the 2019 NFL Draft.
Before getting selected to the Washington Redskins, Allen told local reporters in Tuscaloosa, Ala., that Williams would be the next elite defensive lineman. The Virginia native’s words proved accurate and in one season, the Birmingham native was the most disruptive force in college football – totaling 19.5 tackles for loss, eight sacks and 12 quarterback hurries.
RELATED: Players who are staying, leaving Alabama football for 2019 NFL Draft
Prior to him leaving the Mal Moore facility on Wednesday morning, Williams tapped four-star defensive lineman D.J. Dale as the next great one. While he mentioned that he will keep his eye on rising junior LaBryan Ray too, the 300-pound appears to be very high on the 2019 signee.
“I’m going to stay on him,” Williams said of Dale. “He’s bigger than me. He is ready.”
Alabama’s recipient of the 2018 Outland Trophy was not joking about Dale’s size.
The 6-foot-3, 323-pound specimen is very athletic and has an exceptional wingspan. He has a lot to learn, but if Williams is high on him, then it will be very interesting. Dale has an opportunity to rise and become the immediate replacement for one of 19 unanimous All-Americans under Nick Saban.
As for Williams, he projects as a top-five pick by most NFL Draft analyst
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber only content!*
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
