Meeting Cowboys No. 56 pick Sam Williams: Strengths, Weaknesses, Fit

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Jan 1, 2022; New Orleans, LA, USA; Baylor Bears quarterback Gerry Bohanon (11) is sacked by Mississippi Rebels defensive lineman Sam Williams (7) in the third quarter of the 2022 Sugar Bowl at the Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /

Sam Williams’ Strengths

Hands: One of the best parts of Williams’ game is his hand strength. He has shown he can bully linemen off the edge and can unlock himself off of opposition. He has a great hand stab as well which helps get himself get off of blocks. He makes blockers work and tires them out throughout the game.

Explosiveness: The new Cowboys DE’s first step is among the best in the SEC. He has the speed to blow by tackles and it helps him get a step ahead when lined up inside. Williams also tested well, running the second-fastest 40-time at the combine and it shows on tape.

Sam Williams is a Dallas Cowboy! “He is now a Dallas Cowboy. They’re celebrating getting their man.” #HottyToddy @DegarrickSamuel pic.twitter.com/uMrlXCmNgX
— The Rebel Walk (@TheRebelWalk) April 30, 2022

Versatility: In JUCO and his first two seasons at Ole Miss, the second-round pick actually lined up at outside linebacker. In his senior season, he switched to defensive end and lined up inside often. He has true positional versatility, having the speed to play linebacker and the strength and length to play on the line.

Motor: The former JUCO star plays with a relentless motor, which is key to always being in the backfield. A lot of what makes an edge rusher great, or even a football player, is that they never give up on a play and they will go to the whistle. The ‘Boys get that here with Williams.

Size/Length: Something you can’t really teach in the NFL is size. Standing at 6-4, 261 pounds, Williams has the ideal size for the prototypical defensive end. He also has above average length which allows him to get ahold of lineman before they can get to him.

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