2017 NFL Draft Profile: Running Back Joe Williams

This 2017 NFL Draft profile will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of Utah running back Joe Williams.

With all of the talent at running back in the 2017 NFL Draft this year, some players are likely to go unnoticed. One example of this is Utah running back Joe Williams.

Williams had two solid years at Utah, and he would make a lot of NFL teams happy. During those years, Williams tallied up 1,884 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. He also had 20 receptions and 191 receiving yards.

There is no doubt that this guy can play on the next level. Unfortunately, he’s been overlooked by the top running backs in this year’s class. With all of these top backs coming from top schools, a one-year starter from Utah is highly unlikely to get any attention.

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The point of this profile is to show the strengths, weaknesses, and highlights of the speedy Utah running back. It will also show a prediction of where he will land in the draft.

STRENGTHS

Williams’ biggest strength is his acceleration. He is really good at getting to the outside and cutting up the field. He’s also got great breakaway speed, which was shown in his 4.41 40-yard dash. Another highlight is his break tackle ability. He shows no mercy, as he is able to run through defenders, especially ones who arm tackle.

WEAKNESSES

A huge problem is his red flags. According to the Connecticut newspaper, the Hartford Courant, Williams got kicked out of his original school, UConn, for credit card theft, and for using that stolen credit card. He then retired for that reason but came back to play football for Utah a couple of years later. All of this is a major problem, and it will likely push him back in this year’s draft.

HIGHLIGHTS

DRAFT DAY PREDICTION

Williams has a lot of baggage, which will likely drop him pretty low. He will probably go in the middle fifth round to a team that can afford to do so. If a team can pick him up and give him a chance to prove himself, and he is willing to do so, then he could become a solid NFL running back in the next three to five years.