Film Don't Lie | CJ Williams
Wide receiver might be the most important position left on the board in Notre Dame’s 2022 class. That makes CJ Williams one of the most important prospects on the board and it makes his commitment arguably the most significant one for the Irish so far this cycle.
Forget that this is a top prospect taken from USC’s backyard or that Williams played for a program that hasn’t exactly been a pipeline for Notre Dame over the years. Just look at what Williams can bring to the table as a player and it should be enough to get Notre Dame fans excited about his future in blue and gold.
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 190
Projected Position: Wide receiver
ISD Grade: 94 (4-star)
National Average Grade: 94.9 (4-star)
What he does best:
Williams is right up there as one of the top route runners in the class. He is very smooth out of his breaks. This route, whether it was a plan or an adjustment, is simply filthy. He opens up to the inside and is able to swing his hips back to break outside. That creates the separation for him to make this catch and he does a terrific job of being aware of the sideline as well.
He has great ball skills. He’s a natural hands catcher and his body control is also outstanding. He tracks the football extremely well and can adjust his body to give him the best shot to win contested catches.
He has an advanced understanding of how to set up corners. He does it while in the slot or while lined up outside. The corner here is playing off and Williams forces the issue enough for the corner to open up. He is so open here because of his grasp of how the corner is going to play against what he expects is a vertical route.
He does a great job of working in traffic, which is why he is a legitimate option to thrive in the slot.
What he needs to improve:
Though he has good footwork, he’s not overly sudden and isn’t a burner. If his top end speed and twitch doesn’t improve, he’ll have to continue to be an elite route runner to play at the highest level.
I love his ability to be physical to fight through press, but he must get better with his releases to not get stuck and throw off the timing of routes.
What’s his ceiling?
Williams has the ability to develop into a WR1 at Notre Dame even if he doesn’t become a true vertical threat. He can win with his intelligence and technique in a way right now that many players never truly are able to in college football.
He can play any of the wide receiver positions and has the potential to be a consistent target on 3rd down and in the red zone. I see him playing in the slot at Notre Dame.
Who he could be:
Former Cal receiver Keenan Allen