Williams had one sack, three quarterback hits and 17 total quarterback pressures this season playing 40 percent (446) of the defensive snaps, per Pro Football Focus statistics, so there’s room for growth.
“He’s a special talent,” veteran defensive lineman Roy Lopez said of Williams. “You don’t see somebody that size that athletic, that’s for sure. He’s going to be very, very, very, very fun to watch. He knows he’s good and that’s something that’s special. Confidence in a young player goes a long way and seriously, I can’t wait to see him grow. I’ll be a fan of his for sure.”
With Lopez, DJ Reader and Levi Onwuzurike all headed toward unrestricted free agency this spring, the Lions are going to count on Williams taking a big leap in Year 2 and hold down the center of the defensive front alongside Alim McNeill next season.