Welcome to the pre-draft season! Leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft starting on April 28th, we will be releasing draft profiles of prospects who could potentially see themselves on the Pittsburgh Steelers. Next up…
Kyren Williams (Running Back), Notre Dame, RS Sophomore
OVERVIEW
Williams is a NFL ready talent that will be ready to step onto the field day one. Whether it be on special teams as a returner, or on the offensive side of the ball, Williams has a NFL skillset that will make his presence felt. A bit undersized for the NFL game, Williams will likely find himself as part of a committee or a 1-2 punch with a bigger back.
PROS
When you hear Williams' name, it is synonymous with pass protection. Not only a dynamic pass blocker, Williams is a proven pass catcher out of the backfield, hauling in 77 passes over the past two seasons. For as good as he is in the passing game, he is just as good a runner. Despite only being 5'9" and under 200 pounds, he is a tough-nosed runner who has no problem dishing it out. He has better quickness than speed, but did showcase during his Pro Day that his 4.65 40-yard dash time at the combine was a fluke, posting a 4.54 40.
Death, taxes, and Kyren Williams in pass pro pic.twitter.com/C9b5FRV4Oh
— Cory (@realcorykinnan) March 27, 2022
CONS
His playing style does not suit his frame in the long term, he will have to bulk up or learn to pick and choose when to dish it out. Doesn't have breakaway speed and will likely get caught at the NFL level. Needs to work on ball security after having 8 fumbles (4 lost) over the past two years. Doesn't consistently break tackles and sometimes gives up yardage to do so.
DRAFT PROJECTION: 4th-5th round
OUTLOOK
Williams is a player who brings toughness and a desire to win, which already lines up with the Pittsburgh mindset. He has a skillset that not only compliments Najee Harris, but is one that has a proven successful longevity in the NFL. If the Steelers could snag Williams on Day Three and use him in a James White/Austin Ekeler type of role, the Steelers would not only help extend Harris's career, but provide the offense with another much needed weapon.
Would you want to see Williams in the black and gold? Let us know in the comments below!
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