Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State

The Lions selected wide receiver Derrick Williams, Penn State, with their 2nd, third round pick (#82) in this years draft. I was unsure of this pick at first but after further review, I believe he’ll get on the field first as a return man and sometimes as a receiver.  He was the best guy and a need at 82 so I can’t complain too much.

Strengths:
Derrick has excellent athleticism, has good speed and is very quick.  He is very elusive and changes direction extremely well.  Williams also has great vision and solid ball skills.  He’s very tough and is not afraid to take a hit over the middle.  He offers a lot of versatility as he is also a good blocker and a fantastic kick/punt returner.  Derrick has a great upside

Weaknesses:
Williams is not very big, coming in at 5’-11”, 197 lbs.  Should be able to bulk up with Detroit.  He tends to drop a lot of catchable balls.  He’s very inconsistent as a route runner but has room to improve.

Williams had the flu during the NFL combine and worked out against the advice of his agent.  He did much better during his pro day at Penn State.  Derrick is also a friend of Lions WR Bryant Johnson.  Johnson has been in contact with Williams and is one of his mentors.  This should bode well for both players and the Lions.

Overall I believe this was a good pick.  Williams has the potential to be a very good returner and might be of help as a receiver.  I’d give this pick a B-.