Diamond in the Rough: EDGE/LB Darius Williams

Darius Williams is a senior edge rusher and linebacker for the Natchez High School football team located in Natchez, MS. Darius is a 6’2” 205lbs pound athlete for the Bulldogs. The senior has been a huge part of the Bulldog’s defense being second in tackles for the team on the season with over 45 TOT. He has also had over 10 TFLs and over 4 sacks to add to this already impressive start to the season. Using his speed, having a 4.55 40-yard dash, and his very quick first step, Darius finds multiple ways to get into the backfield to disrupt the passing game or shut down the run game for opponents. As a three-sport athlete, playing football, soccer, and running track, it has helped him prepare his body for the football field. Darius Williams has three offers from Oklahoma Wildcats, Coahomma Community College, and Louisiana Christian University and is continuing to hear more as his impressive season progresses.

Q: When did you start playing football?

“I was six when I first started playing football.”

Q: What is your favorite football memory?

“Recently we played Jefferson Country. They added a new thing this year called Battle 61 and we won. So, we got the trophy for winning.”

Q: What have you learned about yourself while playing football?

“That I am a hard worker, and it has made me push myself to be a better person on and off the football field.”

Q: Do you play any other sports other than football?

“The sports I play other than football are track and soccer.”

Q: How has these sports helped you on the football field?

“These other sports have kept me in shape for football and have helped me get faster and have better endurance.”

Q: What are your biggest strengths?

“My first step is my biggest strength. I am really quick, so it allows no one to touch me.”

Q: Other than EDGE/LB do you play any other positions?

“Yes, I also play some tight end.”

Q: What is something you have improved from last season so far in this season?

“My mindset. Not to give up so quick. Just keep pushing no matter what no matter how bad or how good things are going. Don’t take your foot off the gas.”

Q: What was the type training did you do this offseason?

“My training was from agility, to being on the track with our coaches, to footwork, to weights it all comes together.”

Q: How would your teammates describe you?

“They would describe me as a fun but hard-working person and player.”

Q: What is your personal goal for the season?

“My personal goal this season is to win district. Just taking it one win at a time.”

Q: As an EDGE/LB do you prefer to cover more or rush the quarterback?

“Rush the quarterback. The reason why is, because of how quick I am, I don’t think any offensive line can touch me.”

Q: How do you think you’ve stepped up as a leader this year?

“By being there for my teammates. When we are down, I am there to pick everybody up and make sure no one gives up. Keep going no matter how hard it is.”

Q: Who is your role model?

“I have two role models. My mom and one of my coaches, Coach Dave. My mom no matter what no matter how hard things get she going to me my mom. She’s always there for me. She’s, my superhero. When I am down, she comes and picks me up. Coach Dave, he has been with me since I was a freshman. Him and I have a close bond. Outside of football too he has helped me a lot. All of my coaches helped me a ton, but he is that one coach I know whenever anything gets hard I can call him.”

Q: How has the recruitment process been for you?

“Slightly tough. I’ve had a couple school show interest, but you know. I’m still weighing my options and seeing if any more offers come.”

Q: What makes you special where a college should be interested in you?

“Well, I’d say, my quick skills, dedication, and the type of player I am.”

Q: Which NFL or college player do you model your game afterwards?

“Micah Parsons. He’s not big he’s not small be he’s just right, he’s quick.”

Q: How would your coach describe you?

“One word, determination. Determination to give everything to him.”

Q: What do you think you are still trying to improve on throughout the rest of the season?

“Get bigger and get better at everything fundamentally to become smoother with my moves.”