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Just like Dantae Chin, who checked in as the No. 10 player in the 2022 recruiting class according to ‘Rutgers Wire,’ Zilan Williams is one of the later additions to this class. That is absolutely no indictment on the defensive back, however, who was wanted by a number of top programs and has a proven track record with one of the top programs in Maryland.
Offers included Boston College, Maryland, Purdue and Virginia among others.
Williams is a solid add for Rutgers at any point in the recruiting solid but especially at this point in the calendar. At 6-foot-2, he has good length and is a physical, combative cornerback.
He has the type of length that Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano likes at the position. At DeMatha Catholic, he played against top competition. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Williams see significant time on special teams and crack the two-deep at Rutgers as a freshman.
Zilan Williams and Oliver Bridges Under Armour Camp Highlights https://t.co/GSVyCv46r4 via @CBSSports
— Kristian Dyer (@KristianRDyer) December 5, 2021
What stands out about Williams?
He is a ballhawk in the secondary, looking to make plays and create turnovers. Breaks well to the ball and is a solid, sure tackler who wraps up receivers. Sheds blocks well in run support.
Does a nice job of sticking with wide receivers, using hands and shadowing his targets. Doesn’t get turned around in man coverage.
Where does Williams need to develop?
Sometimes, Williams has a tendency to give a bit too much pad. Needs to be more physical at the line and combative with his hands. Footwork at times can be a little choppy, even as he has long strides when keeping up with a receiver down the field.