The Unpacking Future Packers countdown is a countdown of the 100 prospects who could be selected by the Green Bay Packers in the 2024 NFL Draft.
While talking to Packers.com At the NFL Scouting Combine, Brian Gutekunst mentioned that he wants his safeties to be versatile.
“It really helps your defense be versatile and flexible so teams can't figure out what you're doing,” Gutekunst said. “So, in an ideal world, quite frankly, between safeties and nickels, those three almost need to be completely interchangeable.”
A player capable of wearing multiple hats that the Green Bay Packers could target in the 2024 NFL Draft is Evan Williams. Oregon State's safety is being examined at No. 67 in the countdown to unload future packages.
During his four seasons at Fresno State, Williams recorded 226 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, four interceptions, and 12 pass deflections.
Last season in Eugene, Williams recorded 82 tackles, five tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. He built off this strong season with an impressive week in Mobile in the Senior Bowl.
“Evan Williams was a big part of Oregon's defense this year, mainly due to his tackling ability and knack for always being in the play,” he said. Zachary Neal, managing editor of Duckswire.com, said:While his coverage could certainly improve, he was a consistent presence in every game and proved to be one of the most valuable pieces of the defense.
Williams is a player capable of wearing multiple hats. He has speed in the short zone to run the slot and has the range to play deep. During his college career, Williams recorded 604 snaps in the slot and 960 snaps at safety.
As a fast defender, Williams runs the alley-oop with urgency. He plays with a relentless motor and displays excellent pursuit speed with great range as a run defender. He's eager to throw his weight around. The former Fresno State defensive back is rarely out of position and always seems to be in the action.
“I think one of Williams' biggest assets is his physicality and ability to tackle in open spaces,” Neal said. “He has a keen interest in football and always seems to be involved in the game. Williams was very good at defending last season, often getting into the box and onto the flats to make tackles.
Williams is a very instinctive player who is quick to read routes and takes the right angles to get from point A to point B quickly. He trusts his field vision, which allows him to play quickly and under control. He's quick to get to the receiver and put him on the ground to limit his YAC.
“Williams was very good about being in the right spot when it came to covering receivers down the field,” Neal said. “His football skills need to improve so he can become a more impactful player in the passing game,” he added.
During his collegiate career, Williams recorded 466 snaps on special teams and recorded five tackles.
Suit up with the Packers
With Darnell Savage Jr., Jonathan Owens and Rudy Ford set to hit the open market this offseason, the Packers will need an infusion of talent at safety.
Gutekunst wants his defensive back to be versatile and Williams is capable of playing in the slot and deep.
“I think Williams had a great career at Fresno State and then proved he can still produce at a high level when stepping up to a bigger field in his only season with the Ducks,” Neal said. “He's a player, and he's going to be one of the hardest-working guys on the roster.”
With his versatility, competitive toughness, instincts and special teams experience, Williams will be an attractive target for the Packers on Day 3 of the draft as they look to supplement their safety room.
