Jameson Williams | Alabama 6’1” 179 lbs. | 3/26/2021 (Age 21)
Jameson Williams was drafted by the Detroit Lions, becoming the fourth wide receiver and 12th overall player in the 2022 NFL Draft.
COLLEGE PRODUCTION
Jameson didn’t break out until his junior year. In fact, Williams couldn’t even break the 200 receiving yard threshold his freshman and sophomore years. Playing behind two projected first-rounders in Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave is a valid reason. However, you would have liked to see him produce at a higher rate despite that fact.
When he did finally get his chance at Alabama Jameson went off for 1572 yards receiving and 15 touchdowns.
FILM
Williams’s best asset is no doubt his elite speed. He had no issues separating from the pro-caliber defensive backs in the SEC. We should expect the same at the NFL level. Scouts will love his vertical field-stretching ability. This opens up the field for the entire passing offense. Williams also shows explosiveness in his route running. He isn’t a finished product but he has the tools to become a high-level starter in the NFL.
ATHLETIC TESTING
Williams did not participate in the Combine testing due to his torn ACL injury. That said, we know he has elite speed. He is perhaps the fastest player in this draft. He has a slight frame at only 179 lbs though, so he will need to get stronger to best compete at the NFL level.
DRAFT ANALYSIS
Rapid Reaction to Draft Capital: Excellent
Rapid Reaction to Landing Spot: Above-average
Williams was selected with the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions.
FANTASY INSIGHTS
I have Wilson, Olave, and Williams each in a virtual dead heat as far as projected future fantasy production. They should be solid contributors to fantasy teams but I don’t expect them to be superstars that will have multiple top 12 fantasy finishes. Williams should go off the board in Superflex rookie drafts in the mid-late first round. Given Detroit’s lack of high-end receiving talent, Williams should have a clear path to targets.
Williams is the type of field stretcher that NFL teams salivate over to open up the field for teammates. This quality enhances his real-life value more than his fantasy value which is something to be cognizant of when you see his high draft capital.
Lastly, Jameson tore his ACL in the National Championship game vs Georgia. ACLs can take some time before the player is back to their previous form so don’t be too concerned if he gets off to a slow start.
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