Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Kadeem Williams, OL, UAlbany

Courtesy of UAlbany

Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Kadeem Williams, OL, Albany

Kadeem Williams, is a 6-7, 310-pound offensive lineman who helped UAlbany to the league’s top-ranked scoring offense (34.1), and limited opponent sacks to just 1.45 per game, starting all 11 games at left tackle. Kadeem had an outstanding NCAA career, and NFL teams are drooling over this kid’s size and strength.  The teams see a true Diamond in the Rough, remember his name because he will turn heads.  UAlbany had a prospect like this a few years back in quarterback Dan DiLella who went into camps and tore it up.  Expect the same from Kadeem. 

How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?

I had about 8 teams recruiting me.

What school did you choose and why?

I chose UAlbany because on my visit I immediately fell in love with the family atmosphere of the program. We have a saying called “purplefam” and when I got there I just felt right at home.

What were your goals for your senior year?

My goals for my senior year were to just keep improving in all facets of the game and become a much more vocal leader.

Have any scouts met with you, and if so what are they saying?

I’ve met with about 7 scouts. They all have said something similar, that with my frame I could probably play and be improved with an added 10-15 pounds. They also like the extension that I’m able to get on opponents.

At your position, what separates you from the others?

The thing that separates me from others at my position is my arm length and basketball background.

Tell us what you look for when breaking down film?

When watching film I usually watch for LB and safety alignments pre-snap. They tend to tip off blitzes and DL stunts. The other thing I look for is how well the DL uses their hands and what are their secondary or counter moves.

Who was the toughest player you have ever faced?

Zach Kerr, Delaware

If you could compare your play to one person in the NFL who would it be?

Tyron Smith of the Dallas Cowboys.

What was the biggest obstacle in your life you had to overcome, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest obstacle I’ve had to overcome was growing up in a single parent home with a disabled mother. I was able to overcome it by really getting into sports and using them as a positive outlet.

What system fits your style of play the best?

I think any system that uses a zone blocking scheme but I’m also athletic enough to play in a system that passes alot more.

What is your biggest strength?

Biggest strength- pretty good athlete with long arms

What is your biggest weakness?

Biggest weakness-only playing 1 year in the CAA- one of the best conferences in FCS

If I were a GM and gave you a second to sell yourself, what would you say?

I’m a hard worker with a great football IQ and a guy that’s going to make great decisions off the field as well.

Growing up, who was your role model?

My grandfather

Who was your favorite team and player in the NFL and why?

My favorite team was the Denver Broncos and my favorite player was receiver Rod Smith. My family were Broncos fan and he was the ultimate pro.

What is the most tragic situation you have ever had to over come?

The most tragic event that happened was my grandfather passing away. I spent alot of time with him and he was like my father. I was able to overcome it through sports, prayer, and family being a great support system.

If you were to have dinner with three people dead or alive who would it be?

If I could have dinner with three people they’d be my grandfather, Shaq, and Magic Johnson. They were his favorite players.

With your first paycheck what would you buy

My mother a house