The Panthers need to add pieces to their offensive line. Jonah Williams would be a great fit for Carolina if he’s available at No. 16 overall.
There have been many spirited debates surrounding Alabama offensive tackle Jonah Williams in the lead up to the draft. Most of the questions have nothing to do with Williams’ talent. The main question is whether he projects better to a guard or tackle in the NFL.
As a true freshman in 2016, Jonah Williams was a starter at right tackle for the Crimson Tide. He transitioned to the left side once Cam Robinson departed for the NFL. The Combine is next week, but multiple reports are suggesting that Williams’ arm length will measure below the average length for an offensive tackle.
Do these questions really matter though? Maybe, but guards are becoming valuable members of an offense. After watching Williams’ tape, I came away wanting him on my team because of his fully refined skill set.
Pass protection
Williams is polished in many areas of pass protection. His footwork is not only effective, but it’s precise. He has a smooth kick slide and he understands angles to gain depth.
Williams is facing Clelin Ferrell on this play. He’s able to flush out Ferrell and open a lane for his mobile quarterback. Williams closes off the speed rush by angling his body outside, but he also does gets his hands on Ferrell to prevent any movement towards his quarterback.
Check out these four clips of Williams against Texas A&M in 2018. His lack of length is a real issue, but Williams shows terrific hand usage to sweat his opponents hands. This is a clinic in pass protection. (Williams is the left tackle, No. 73)
Williams is also an intelligent player on the field. He was consistently picking up and passing off stunts. This area will assist him if he moves to guard.
Williams has power throughout his body. He can land an initial punch, which causes defenders to become unbalanced, drop his hips to anchor, or he can control the the defender by using his hands to swipe any counters.
These two clips display the issues many point to about Williams’ length. He can expose his upper frame at times, which prevents him from using his feisty hand skills to counter the edge rusher. He also has a tendency to anticipate speed rushes, which leave him susceptible to inside rushes. That becomes a concern because his length isn’t long enough to recover.
Run blocking
Williams might not be a prototypical mauler, but he moves defenders in the run game. He has experience in zone and power schemes. He rarely misses his target when he moves to the second level and he’s constantly moving his feet upon contact.
Alabama scores a touchdown off a zone concept. Williams fires off low, lands a punch, and then drives the defender while moving laterally.
Williams is patient and controlled when he locates his target. He shows light feet, but then drives the linebacker backwards for five yards.
His skill set as a run blocker is why he should transition seamlessly to guard if a team plays him there.
Fit with Carolina
Williams could be a very good left tackle for the Panthers, but he could become an all pro guard. Cam Newton is more effective when he has a clean interior. Look back at his 2015 season when he had Andrew Norwell, Ryan Kalil, and Trai Turner protecting the interior. Norv Turner’s offense relies on five to seven step drop backs and Newton has shown a propensity to step up into clean pockets. I have watched a handful of other guard and tackle prospects, but Williams is the clear front runner. His overall game is so polished that he could help the Panthers from Day One.