Raiders NFL Draft Prospect: S James Williams, Miami

Miami safety James Williams could be an intriguing fit for the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Las Vegas Raiders are turning their attention to the 2024 NFL Draft, looking to find young talent that will help them make the postseason in 2024.

The Raiders were an improved defensive team in 2023 but still found themselves outside the playoff picture. Las Vegas may be just a few defensive pieces away from the playoffs next season.

The Raiders have a few impressive young players in their secondary but may want to add a few more to solidify their core. There is no such thing as adding too much talent in the NFL.

That talent could come in the form of Miami safety James Williams. Williams is a tall and physical safety who was a catalyst in the Hurricanes’ improved defense in 2023.

Williams declared for the draft in December and will be at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., to showcase his talents in front of NFL coaches against the best players in the draft.

Williams concluded his Hurricanes’ career with 162 total tackles, two tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, 13 passes defended, and four interceptions. He appeared in 32 career games for Miami.

Miami safety James Williams could be an intriguing fit for the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2024 NFL Draft / Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Williams is one of the tallest defensive back prospects in the draft at 6-foot-5, and he weighs 215 pounds. He could play linebacker if he puts on more weight at the next level.

This would continue a common theme with Raiders players, as current linebackers Divine Deablo and Amari Burney played defensive back in college but transitioned to linebacker later in their careers.

Williams plays as big as his stature, too. He is not afraid to be physical, and his long strides and elite athleticism allow him to play the run at a high level. He is an impressive coverage player, too, as he was targeted 30 times and allowed just 17 receptions for 179 yards, according to Pro Football Focus.

Being a tall defensive back has its limitations, though, especially for Williams. He struggles to get low in coverage and tackling, which causes him to give up leverage. He also struggles in man coverage, something he will need to improve at the next level.

Williams is projected to be a fourth-round selection. He could offer the Raiders versatility on defense if they decide to select him in the later rounds.

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