Williams redshirted his first year in the Bear program, earning Cal’s defensive scout team player of the year. He showed his potential on the field a year later, posting 26 tackles, four for loss, and half a sack. Williams started on the weakside as a sophomore, finishing the season with 51 tackles, two for loss, and an interception. He shifted inside last year as a junior, and it paid huge dividends for the Cal defense. Williams had 105 tackles, 8.5 for loss, and a sack on the year.
Strengths
Teams need to keep an eye on Williams on every play. He is an athletic linebacker that is very aggressive. Once he reads the action, he wastes no time attacking the ball carrier. He has a thick build and has the strength to get off a block and make plays between the tackles. Williams is also quick enough to slide down the line of scrimmage and make plays sideline to sideline. His bulk and aggression creates quite a force when he arrives on the ball carrier, and he will lay the wood on anyone in his way. Williams has quite a bit of experience inside and out, and cold help provide depth at a number of spots in the NFL.
Weaknesses
Williams’ lack of height is a concern. He is a tad short at just 6' and it may limit his growth potential, as he always has a sturdy frame. He also may lack the great speed to chase plays down, and it could give him problems when asked to play in space.
Future
DJ Williams younger brother has a similar build, but lacks the standout speed his brother has. Williams is still a very good linebacker that can make plays up and down the line of scrimmage. The lack of ideal height and speed may hurt him on draft day, but he has a variety of skills to make up for it at the pro level. He may not have as much potential as other linebackers, but he has the ability to be a very solid NFL linebacker.