Denver Broncos Select Sylvester Williams in First Round of 2013 NFL Draft
By Shawn Blondo
Nov, 26, 2011; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils quarterback Anthony Boone (7) is pressured by North Carolina Tar Heels defensive tackle Sylvester Williams (92) on fourth down in the fourth quarter. The Tar Heels defeated the Blue Devils 37-21at Kenan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
“With the 28th pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos select Sylvester Williams, Defensive Tackle, North Carolina” Roger Goodell said at Radio City Music Hall. Denver Executive Vice President of Football Operations John Elway chose to shore up the defensive interior with the 6′ 3″ 313 pound beast of a man. Elway said on twitter that they are “Thrilled to select DT Sylvester Williams from UNC. His position has been a need for us and he will be a tremendous anchor for our DL.”
This is a fantastic pick for the Broncos. Defensive Tackle was one of Denver’s greatest needs, and he should step right into the starting rotation. He is known to have unexpected quickness and a phenomenal swim move, which is sure to bring big plays from the interior.
NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock had three names for Denver to select just prior to the pick, and Williams was one of those three. NFL.com says he is a “wide body nose tackle with an unexpected bit of quickness off the snap.” Their NFL comparison is Terrance Knighton, who just so happens to be his new teammate. Knighton is a former Jaguar, who was acquired through free agency.
Williams will be coached in Denver by John Fox and Jack Del Rio, who are two of the best defensive teachers in the game.
The last Defensive Tackle chosen in the first round by the Broncos was Trevor Pryce in 1997. Coincidentally, he was also chosen with the 28th pick. The Broncos still have a pick in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 7th rounds. Now that they have their DT, their likely to draft a DE, CB, and an RB in the next three rounds based upon team needs.
We here at Predominantly Orange would like to welcome Williams to the Bronco family. We look forward to watching you stuff Darren McFadden at the line for many years to come!