NY Jets 2015 Spotlight: Leonard Williams

The NY Jets might have found their next big star at defensive end with Leonard Williams. He had a solid rookie season that shows his future is very bright in the NFL.

When the Jets drafted Williams in last year’s draft, many fans weren’t surprised because of how much if an impact he would have the moment he stepped foot on the field. Most people knew he was ready to play in the NFL from what they have seen on tape, or from watching his games at USC.

The Jets already had a lot of talent on their defensive line, but he was easily the best player available when they were on the clock. Many weren’t sure if Williams was going to start, or play very little during the regular season. He got the chance to start right off the bat when Sheldon Richardson was handed a suspension that would make him miss four games. Williams knew this was his chance and he wasn’t going to take it for granted.

Williams stats for a rookie in his first season were pretty impressive when he recorded 63 combined tackles, three quarterback sacks and 29 total tackles. He lived up to the hype he generated pre-draft and delivered when the Jets needed it most.

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In his first season he was even considered a finalists for the Defense Rookie Player of the Year award. He also was respected by many of the veteran players on the team for his work ethic.

Williams was always learning from those who have been in the game and he wanted to understand as much as possible.

He has the capability of stepping in again next season and be a contributor like he was in 2015 because Richardson is facing another suspension. The only problem I have with his game is his technique in getting to the ball. He doesn’t seem to get much leverage off the line because it is either he’s having trouble timing it or he is not have much success with the way he gets to the ball.

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That’s just a minor adjustment to his game, which he’ll correct over time since his future is very bright. Williams has been able to improve every opportunity he gets to play in so once he puts everything together, he’ll be a force to reckon with.

I think the Jets have found a winner in Williams because many fans have big hopes for him as a player. I think if he continues to learn from the veterans on the team and keep up working hard, nothing will stop him as he gets more experience.