Oregon defensive back Evan Williams is an incredibly productive and athletic prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft. Williams thrived for the Ducks this past season, accumulating 82 tackles and 4.5 sacks. He then traveled to the NFL Combine and had a 40.5-inch vertical and 10-foot-6 broad jump.
Williams recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about his decision to transfer from Fresno State to Oregon, playing against the quarterbacks of the Pac-12, which teams are showing interest in his services, and more.
JM: Now that you've had time to reflect, how do you look back on the decision to transfer from Fresno State to Oregon?
Evan Williams: I definitely don’t regret anything about my decision. I’ve loved my entire journey. You make those decisions as time progresses forward. You try to make the best decision at that moment. The cards will fall where they may.
Oregon gave me a terrific opportunity. They put me in a great position to hopefully make it to the next level. I met some great people along the way. I hold onto some great relationships from both Fresno State and Oregon. I wouldn’t change anything even if I could.
JM: Was transferring to the Pac-12 and proving you could play at a higher level a reason behind the decision?
Evan Williams: Yeah, it was definitely one of my reasons. I had one year left to prove that I belonged at the next level. I wanted to compete with the best of the best in my draft class. I wanted to prove that point against the best competition.
I knew that the Pad 12 had quite the draft class at the quarterback position. The overall level of competition had elite athletes on both sides of the ball. If I can compete against those guys, and dominate some games the way I did, I knew I was removing all doubts for scouts that watched my film. That was definitely on my mind when I entered the portal.
JM: You had a great season, totaling 82 tackles and 4.5 sacks. What is it about your skill set that allows you to always be around the football?
Evan Williams: That’s a great question. I would like to chalk that up to having great instincts. I’d like to consider myself an instinctual player. It’s more than that though. It’s about developing good habits as well.
I always harp on that at practice. I’ve always practiced that way. Run to the ball even when it seems like you’re not involved in the play. That allows good things to happen. If one person misses a tackle, or the ball carrier explodes through the hole, the next thing you know, you’re in a position to make the play.
I never take a play for granted. That’s something I've learned throughout my years. When it comes to actually making those plays, I’ll let my instincts take over. I’m relentless in pursuit.
JM: I also thought you put forth a solid showing at the NFL Combine. Lower body explosion was on display via a 40.5-inch vertical and 10-foot-6 broad. Were you satisfied with the performance?
Evan Williams: I felt good about it. For sure. I definitely wanted to get that 40 time a little lower though. I felt like I popped up a little bit at my start. I was able to correct that a little bit at Pro Day. I definitely showed off my lower-body explosiveness as you said.
I think my change of direction was great. I felt fluid during position drills. I definitely showed what I wanted to.
JM: Do NFL teams see you playing the nickel at the next level?
Evan Williams: I’ve had different organizations saying I could play as a safety, like a true boundary defender. Other teams have asked me about versatility and playing the nickel at the next level. Truthfully, I couldn't tell you where I’ll play. It doesn’t matter to me.
I’m willing to be a plug-and-play player wherever I’m needed. I want to fit wherever I’m needed. I’m going to try to be elite at that. I think I have the capability to do that. It’s been a journey trying to fit into different positions. I’m willing to do whatever it takes.
JM: You’re so versatile. Do you have any 30 visits or virtual meetings coming up?
Evan Williams: I’ve had some virtual meetings. I had recent ones with the Bills and Packers. We’re still sorting through my schedule. I have another virtual visit coming up with the 49ers as well.
JM: There’s a lot of interest in you and it’s easy to see why. We've appreciated your time. What kind of impact is Evan Williams going to make at the next level?
Evan Williams: I’m definitely going to bring a special type of energy to the organization. That’s what I’ve tried to do at both programs I played at. I’ve always wanted to make an impact. I bring relentless effort to the table.
I have a contagious amount of energy. Combining that with my instincts, my capabilities on the field, my playmaking ability, the sky’s the limit. I have good character as well. I want to be a great teammate that wants to see the team win. I can bring the organization a whole lot closer to winning a Super Bowl.
