Buffalo Bolsters Defense With Athletic Linebacker

Bills Select LB Dorian Williams in Round 3

Buffalo Bolsters Defense with Athletic Linebacker

The Buffalo Bills selected linebacker Dorian Williams with the 93rd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Williams, a standout at the University of Southern California, is a versatile and athletic linebacker who is expected to make an immediate impact on the Bills' defense.

Athletic Profile and College Career

Williams possesses an impressive athletic profile, measuring in at 6'1" and 230 pounds with a 4.54-second 40-yard dash time. He was a three-year starter for the Trojans, recording 222 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, and 4 interceptions during his collegiate career.

• 4.54-second 40-yard dash time
• 222 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, 4 interceptions in college

Projected Role with the Bills

With the Bills losing several key defensive players in free agency, Williams is expected to fill a significant role in the team's defense. He is likely to start alongside Tremaine Edmunds and Matt Milano in the Bills' base defense.

Williams' athleticism and versatility make him a valuable asset to the Bills' defense. He can cover running backs and tight ends in pass coverage, blitz the quarterback, and contribute on special teams.

Draft Analysis and Expert Opinions

NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein praised Williams' athleticism and versatility, saying that he has "the athletic traits and instincts to become a starting-caliber weak-side linebacker in a 4-3 defense."

Pro Football Focus (PFF) gave Williams an overall draft grade of 85.5, ranking him as the 10th-best linebacker in the 2023 draft class. PFF's Anthony Treash wrote that Williams "has the potential to be a valuable three-down linebacker at the next level."

Future Outlook

Dorian Williams has the potential to be a key contributor to the Bills' defense for years to come. His athleticism, versatility, and high football IQ make him a valuable asset to any team. The Bills are excited to add Williams to their roster and believe he can help them compete for a Super Bowl in the near future.