With fall camp on the horizon, I wanted to take one last look at Clemson’s 2017 signees. A few of these true freshman may push for playing time this season. Today’s edition features defensive back, LeAnthony Williams Jr.
Similar to fellow 2017 signee, AJ Terrell, LeAnthony Williams Jr. hails from the state of Georgia. The Clemson Football program continues to capitalize off of their strong Peach State pipeline. Williams and Terrell were friends before they decided upon Clemson as the both of them trained with I-DareU, an elite training program based out of the Atlanta area.
Recruitment:
Williams Jr. held offers from just about every SEC program, as well as National powerhouses such as, Michigan, Notre Dame and Penn State. Clemson got in on his recruitment fairly early, extending a scholarship offer nearly two years before he would eventually sign his National Letter of Intent.
Much like the Tigers, Williams Jr. came to a decision early in his recruitment, committing in February of 2016. The Roswell High School product stood firm on his commitment for over a year and signed with Clemson in February of 2017.
Check out Williams Jr.’s film here.
More freshman profiles: AJ Terrell
Chances at playing time:
If Williams Jr. takes a redshirt in 2017, it will not be because of a lack of talent. With Clemson’s current depth at cornerback, it will be difficult for Williams, let alone any freshman, to earn meaningful snaps in 2017. The aforementioned Terrell appears to have a better shot at playing as a true freshman because of his rare blend of length and speed, but, even he isn’t guaranteed playing time.
Williams Jr. has a high football IQ and phenomenal feet. While he is not a burner, his instincts and smooth transitions allow him to stay in position at all times.
Expectations in year one:
As I previously cited, the Tigers’ depth in the secondary will likely be too much for Williams Jr. to overcome as a true freshman. Williams would not be the first highly touted freshman to redshirt. Just last year, five-star linebacker Shaq Smith took a redshirt. Rather than sulk, Smith worked tirelessly throughout the year, getting faster and stronger in the weight room and digesting Brent Venables’ complex playbook.
Next: Can Clemson reach the rare 50 sacks mark in 2017?
Williams, just as every other freshman, would benefit from a year to get acclimated to the rigors of a college football season. One thing is for certain, with his sound fundamentals and length, Williams will be an impact player for the Clemson football program down the road.