Illinois wide receiver Isaiah Williams led The Big Ten in receptions this past season with 82, a mark that ranked 13th in the nation. Williams also produced his first 1,000-yard campaign in 2023. The dynamic playmaker’s arrow is pointing up heading into this weekend’s 2024 NFL Draft.
Williams recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about his favorite route to run from the slot position, being comfortable as a go-to receiver, returning punts, which teams have shown interest in his services, and more.
JM: You were prolific at Illinois. You led the Big Ten in receptions with 82 during the regular season, which tied for 13th in the nation. You had 82 catches in back-to-back years, and you had your first 1,000-yard season in 2023. What is it about your game that led to that production?
Isaiah Williams: I think the biggest thing for me was hard work and consistency. Ever since I made the position switch to wide receiver, my biggest thing was to get better every single season.
The offseason, during the season, whenever I had a chance to put extra work in, that’s exactly what I did. I always take an opportunity to get better at my craft. Constantly getting better is what led to that production.
The actual skill set, my football IQ comes first and foremost as a former quarterback. I understand route concepts and how to find holes in the defense. For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had the gift of quickness to create separation.
Of course, the coaches put me in outstanding positions as well. I had great quarterbacks that trusted me and were able to get me the ball. I had some good seasons, but it was the people around me that helped me. Those are the biggest things that led to my production. I put in the work to get better every single year.
JM: You were a focal point of the offense. You're used to being a go-to receiver. You've been placed in big situations. How do you think those experiences will help you at the next level?
Isaiah Williams: It’s going to help me tremendously. I feel like I’m a proven asset in those situations. I embraced those situations. It’s one-versus-one, I’m going to win that matchup for my team because I’m a playmaker.
I feel like the biggest thing is that I’m very comfortable with those situations. It’s almost like it’s second nature to me now. I went into most plays saying okay, I’m probably the first read on this play. The team depended on me to move the chains.
It became more natural, I became more comfortable as time progressed forward. I embrace those situations.
JM: I love that. Do NFL teams see you playing the slot at the next level?
Isaiah Williams: Most teams see me playing the slot. I’ve actually had a few teams call me to say they see me playing multiple receiver positions in their offense. They see me being a guy they can move around the formation. The majority of the teams have been saying slot though.
JM: Does Isaiah Williams have a favorite route to run from the slot?
Isaiah Williams: Probably the whip route. I ran more whip routes at Illinois than I can count (laughs). It’s a route that allows me to highlight my best attributes. I’m smooth when changing direction. I can fool a defensive back to think I’m running a slant before sinking my hips to get out of my route and create separation. That whip route really highlights my skill set.
JM: You also returned 27 punts over the previous two seasons. Is that something you hope to continue doing at the next level?
Isaiah Williams: Yeah, of course I do. I want to continue working hard on my abilities as a punt returner so I can get better in that area of my game. I’ve only been doing it for the past two seasons. I feel like there’s a lot more growth opportunities available to me. I really want to keep getting better.
JM: Have you met with any teams throughout this process, whether in person or virtually?
Isaiah Williams: These past few weeks have been crazy. I’ve met with so many teams. Between the East-West Shrine Bowl and NFL Combine, I probably met scouts or receivers coaches from every team.
I met with four teams after my Pro Day. I met with a Cardinals scout and passing game coordinator on Zoom before my pro day, and then I met the scout in person. I met with the Rams and Lions after pro day as well.
I’ve had even more contact since then. I’ve probably been speaking with one or two teams per day. I went to Indianapolis for a local pro day.
JM: There’s a lot of interest in you and it’s easy to see why/ We've appreciated your time today. What kind of impact is Isaiah Williams going to make at the next level?
Isaiah Williams: I want to be a leader of men. I’m going to come in and do my job every single day. You can count on me to be dependable. I’m a playmaker at the end of the day. I make plays when my opportunities arise. I make big-time catches and pick up YAC as well.
I love blocking for my teammates as well. I’m going to do whatever the organization needs from me. I’m looking forward to being a dependable player. I’m going to contribute at a high level.
