Post-trade Denver Broncos scouting report: Sam Williams

Russell Wilson is now a Denver Bronco, and with this trade, the Broncos have to reconsider their approach in the war room.

For starters, Denver no longer holds the ninth pick in the draft. This means they do not have the ability to draft top-tier defensive pieces such as Jordan Davis and George Karlaftis.

Denver also doesn’t hold their own second-round selection, and now only owns the Rams’ pick. In total, the Broncos still hold six picks within the top 150.

Here’s the tell-tale question now: What do the Broncos begin with?

To begin this series of scouting reports, the Broncos need to address the most important position: pass rush.

This is one of the years where the Broncos have a whole bunch of options to pick from, but one name that really stands out is Sam Williams

Denver Broncos 2022 NFL Draft target: Sam Williams

Standing at 6’4″ and 261 pounds, this kid really knows how to move.

Literally.

While mainly listed as an outside linebacker, Williams has also been used for Ole Miss in mid-level coverage situations. He’s able to pick up the coverage, drop back in time, and make the play needed. Williams also posted a 4.46 40-yard dash at the combine, which ranked second among defensive linemen.

Along with his speed, Williams is also extremely aggressive from the line. In the special 3-2-6 base that Lane Kiffin runs, Williams worked from the outside-in. This meant that his approach was to gain the inside edge and beat the outside tackle.

Not only did he prove he was successful at this, but he also took it to another level. In his senior season, Williams totaled 57 total tackles, 12 and a half sacks, and four forced fumbles. Numbers like these compare to NFL stars such as Von Miller and Khalil Mack.

Williams’ combine performance backed up his college season. In front of NFL personnel, Sam Williams showcased his ability to work down low and attack from the outside. He also showed that he can harness his speed and have proper footwork.

Because of the nature of this draft, talented players such as Williams could slide to the second, maybe third round. This offers a prime position for the Broncos to scoop him up and make him the focal point of their draft class.

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Overall, Williams could provide speed and precision to the outside linebacker’s room for the Denver Broncos. On a team that is looking to re-brand their pass rush, the Broncos could be a perfect spot for Sam Williams.