Decosta: Brandon Williams “Better Than We Thought”

Jan 23, 2013; Mobile AL, USA; Senior Bowl north squad defensive lineman Brandon Williams of Missouri Southern (66) and defensive lineman Margus Hunt of SMU (96) wrap up running back Robbie Rouse of Fresno State (28) during the Senior Bowl north squad practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Eric Decosta recently did an interview and he was asked a few questions about the rookies. One comment I found particularly interesting was his thoughts on Brandon Williams.

“He is probably even better than what we thought he was.”

“I was really impressed with Williams,” DeCosta said. “We liked him on tape. We liked him at the Senior Bowl. I really think the guy has a bright future. He’s an explosive kid, very, very athletic. He plays on his feet. He’s got heavy hands.”

The “better than we thought he was” comment is in particular the one that sparked my interest. The Ravens don’t waste third round picks. That means that when they drafted Williams they felt like he was a likely one day starter. To say he is better than expected is an indication that he isnt just a starter, but at minimum an above average lineman.

That is good news for the Ravens whose primary focus this offseason has been strengthening their front 7 on defense. Adding Williams to an already strong group is a big plus and with any luck the Ravens will end up with three really good rotation players at NT/DT in Ngata, Williams and Cody if he can get back to playing like he did in 2011.