The Alabama Crimson Tide managed to lure highly touted wide receiver Jameson Williams from Ohio State to Tuscaloosa after the rising junior struggled to get opportunities with the Buckeyes.
At least so far this summer, Williams is fitting right in with his new team, according to On3 Sports’ Matt Zenitz:
The dynamic wideout is evidently catching on to the system being installed by new Crimson Tide offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien. Not only does that bode well for Williams’ ability to contribute in a big way in 2021, but he’s also thriving in a pro-style offense, which could set him up favorably for the NFL sometime down the road.
Let’s take a closer look at Williams’ game, and figure out how he can fit into Alabama’s passing attack this coming season.
Jameson Williams scouting report, projected role in Alabama offense
With Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson returning for the Buckeyes, it’s no wonder Williams wanted a change of scenery to better showcase his skills. Olave and Wilson could very well be first-round picks in the 2022 NFL Draft.
As it turns out, Alabama is looking to replace two top-10 draft picks at wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith. Dual-threat quarterback Bryce Young is also replacing Mac Jones under center.
Listed at 6-foot-2 and 188 pounds, whatever Williams lacks in bulk he makes up for with exceptional burst and top-end speed. He’s a legitimate deep threat who averaged 17.7 yards per catch in his two previous college seasons. The only thing is, he managed just 15 receptions in that span because of Ohio State’s deep receiving corps.
Although Williams has good short-area quickness that translates to solid route-running, his contact balance must improve in the open field. If he can convert that lateral agility into more play strength and broken tackles, Williams really could be an impact player for the Crimson Tide.
At the very least, Williams should be a go-to target in the red zone, because he’s an excellent hands catcher who can high-point the ball well with his
Coming out of high school, Williams was the 13th-ranked receiver in the class of 2019, per 247Sports. He’s going to be playing with one of the most decorated QBs to ever play for Alabama in Young, whose arm talent and ability to extend the play with his legs bodes well for Williams to shake loose on scramble drills for big gains.
But in O’Brien’s system, there will be plenty of plays to be made in the structure of the offense. Williams demonstrated the capacity to do that when he was given chances at Ohio State.
Williams has to prove he can be consistent and counted on in a larger role. Maybe he’ll turn out to be a thorn in the Buckeyes’ side if these teams have a rematch in the College Football Playoff.
