Meet the Packers: Evan Williams

Packers Nation, the Green Bay Packers are undergoing a major transformation at the safety position this year. With the signing of a major free agent in Xavier McKinney and three safeties drafted, the back end of our defense is about to look completely different. This article takes a closer look at one of the key additions, Evan Williams, and explores where he might fit into this new defensive lineup.

Evan Williams: his origins

Evan Williams is a native of Los Gatos, California. Alongside his brother Bennett, Evan began his football journey at Pop Warner as a child. Williams attended Saint Francis High School in Mountain View, California. As a sophomore, he led the JV team to an undefeated 10-0 record before joining the varsity team for the 2016 state playoffs. As a junior, Williams was a starter on the varsity team, contributing to an 11-4 record and the 2017 state championship. His senior year was even more impressive, earning him the 2018 League Football Player of the Year and first-team All-State honors with 35 receptions for 891 yards and a school-record 14 touchdowns. On defense, he added 35 tackles, three interceptions, and a forced fumble.

Evan Williams: His College Years

Williams, a three-star recruit, was ranked the No. 137 safeties in the 2019 recruiting class and the No. 167 prospect in California. His stellar performance caught the attention of college recruiters, and he received his first scholarship offer from Illinois, where his brother played. Despite interest from FCS and Ivy League teams, Williams chose Fresno State after receiving a late offer from them. He quickly made a name for himself, becoming one of the top recruits in head coach Jeff Tedford’s 2019 class.

After an injury-plagued 2022 season at Fresno State, Williams decided to transfer for his final season in college. He received interest from several major programs, but ultimately chose Oregon, influenced by his brother, Bennett, who was a standout defensive back for the Ducks. Williams accepted an invitation to the 2024 Senior Bowl and was voted the nation’s top defensive player during practice week, further cementing his reputation.

Evan Williams: Skills and Attributes

Williams brings a wealth of experience and versatility to the field, having been a starter all five seasons in college. Known for his keen instincts in zone coverage, Williams excels at reading routes and seeing the quarterback to make plays on the ball. His fluid movements allow him to mimic receivers and run vertically down the field, displaying excellent ball skills and a knack for interceptions.

However, Williams does have some physical limitations. He lacks top-end speed and range, which can prevent him from covering crossing routes and playing center field. His small size and lack of length also pose challenges in winning at the receiving point and bringing down bigger running backs. Despite these drawbacks, Williams’ toughness, energy, and football IQ make him a valuable asset in run support and zone coverage.

The future with the Packers

Evan Williams is an instinctive player with a nose for the football. In the run game, he quickly diagnoses plays and attacks downhill with urgency. His physicality and aggression are evident, although he sometimes misses tackles due to over-pursuit or not taking a step back before engaging the ball carrier. In the pass game, Williams shines in zone coverage, where his anticipation and quickness allow him to disrupt routes and make plays.

While he doesn’t have the physical tools to be a regular starter in the NFL, Williams’ instincts, versatility and toughness will likely allow him to play a role in the Packers’ defense. His ability to play multiple positions in the defensive secondary and his potential on special teams make him a valuable addition to the roster.

With the addition of Xavier McKinney and the influx of new talent, the Packers’ safety position is about to undergo a transformation. Evan Williams brings a unique skill set and a tenacious attitude that could help redefine the back end of our defense. Keep an eye on him during training camp as he’s poised to make his mark in Green Bay.