2019 NFL Draft: 10 players who could fall out of the first round

There were reports recently that Jonah Williams has been receiving some second round grades from draft experts. That would be foolish, in my mind, but that smoke has built up enough for me to think there’s a chance that the Alabama tackle slides a bit on draft day, though many still view him as a potential Top 10 selection.

The combine and Alabama’s pro-day will be key for Williams as he looks to not only lock himself into the first round, but also maintain his perch atop draft boards as the top offensive lineman available in April.

The concern for Williams emerged through scouts being unconvinced of his validity as an NFL tackle, despite his anchoring on both sides of the line for the Crimson Tide in his three-year career in Tuscaloosa. He was a day-one starter for Nick Saban at right tackle as a freshman before shifting over to the left side after Cam Robinson departed for the draft.

Williams was an All-American left tackle, but his lack of length and, in particular, his struggles to block Clemson’s Clelin Ferrell in the National Championship Game have left some believing he’s better suited to kick inside to guard at the next level.

The NFL has long valued tackles over guards, so with some teams believing that, Williams could drop while the likes of Ole Miss’ Greg Little and Florida’s Jawaan Taylor jump up boards as a result of their ability to play tackle.

Regardless of where Williams projects at the next level, and I do believe he can play tackle in the NFL, he’s good enough to be an immediate starter and eventual All-Pro caliber player. The combine and his Alabama pro-day will be key for him, however, to show that he can play tackle and sew up his spot in the first round.