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2017 NFL Mock Draft: First-Round Projections after Week 8

By Tyler Brooke

Oct 1, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) warms up prior to the game against the Louisville Cardinals at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 1, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) warms up prior to the game against the Louisville Cardinals at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 8, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) returns a fumble by Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Austin Allen (not pictured) for a touchdown as defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) trails the play during the second quarter at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) returns a fumble by Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Austin Allen (not pictured) for a touchdown as defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) trails the play during the second quarter at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /

player. 44. . EDGE. Alabama. Tim Williams. 25

Even with Vic Beasley, the Atlanta Falcons are struggling to get to the quarterback. Heading into Sunday’s game against the San Diego Chargers, Atlanta ranked just tied for 19th with 11 sacks on the year.

Assuming Beasley can reach his potential, the Falcons could still use some more pass rushers at outside linebacker. That’s exactly what Alabama’s Tim Williams has been doing with the Crimson Tide, putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks on a consistent basis.

Prior to Saturday’s game against Texas A&M, Williams had already racked up 4.5 sacks and seven quarterback hurries to go along with two forced fumbles. Williams is an explosive and athletic pass rusher, but he’s still incredibly raw and developing as a more all-around player.

The fact that Williams has such a knack at getting to the quarterback should help him get reps on third-and-long situations right away in the NFL, while a coach like Dan Quinn should help him develop into a more complete linebacker.

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