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Depth at Cornerback can come at any point in the draft, and taking a chance on a "workout warrior" isn't that big of a deal when it is towards the back end of the draft. There are also times when a player gets overshadowed by a pretty good teammate who is getting most of the headlines, even though the "other guy" is a pretty good player as well. Steve Williams of California falls into that category, playing opposite Marc Anthony, another CB prospect.
Williams is a three year player after red-shirting as a Freshman, starting 28 games out of the 37 he appeared in, including every game his final two seasons. He finished his career with 151 tackles in those three seasons (111 solo), six interceptions and 31 pass defenses. As with most players, his best season was his last with 80 tackles, seven for loss, and three interceptions. He was named an honorable mention all-conference pick in 2012.
Because of Williams' quickness, both straight line and changing directions, he's suited to play the nickel corner quite well, and his high number of tackles shows a willingness to not shy away from contact. He didn't spend much time playing on the inside at Cal, but I'm sure he'd transition quite well. If he did play on the outside, his 5'9" doesn't bother me too much when you hear he has over a 40" vertical, helping make up for being a little short.
As far as fitting in with the Colts, there's really only one guy officially signed for next year and that's Vontae Davis, so any depth is great. The fact that Williams can play both inside and outside is a good sign, especially for a guy being projected around the 6th round or so. Hopefully flying under the radar will help Williams out, and he's a pretty good choice for a late round CB for the Colts.
Strengths
Shorter than scouts would prefer but has surprisingly broad shoulders and a solid frame, overall. Very good foot quickness, fluidity and speed, overall. Shows the confidence to allow even the Pac-12's fastest receivers to creep up on him in off-man coverage, turning to run with them and shadowing his opponent throughout the route. Good instincts. Reads the receiver and shows an excellent burst to break on underneath routes, such as quick outs and slants.
Weaknesses
Size limitations. Is too willing to fight with receivers and wait for backs to get to him, before aggressively shedding and attempting to save yardage. Asked to play outside most of his career but might project best inside as a nickel corner at the next level.
Compares To: Jabari Greer, CB, New Orleans Saints
Stats from Sports-Reference.com
Combine Measurements:
| Height | Weight | 40 Time | Bench | Broad Jump | Vertical | 3 Cone Drill | 20 Yd. Shuttle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5'9" | 181 | 4.42 | 12 | 10'8" | 40.5" | 6.89 | 4.10 |