Evan Williams' draft stock idles after the former Duck’s NFL Combine
By Sam Fariss
After an incredible performance at the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl, many were expecting Evan Williams to have a jaw-dropping day at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Here is how day two unfolded for the former Oregon Duck:
Evan Williams – 40-yard dash
On his first attempt, Williams ran a disappointing 4.61 in the 40-yard dash. With a 10-yard split of 1.55 seconds, it looked like the former Duck was in good shape but when he crossed the line more than three seconds later, the start of Williams’ day wasn’t looking great.
His second attempt was a one-hundredth of a second slower than his first. With his best time of 4.61 seconds, Williams finished fourth to last in the safeties group.
Texas Tech’s Dadrion Taylor-Demerson ran the quickest 40-yard dash in the group with a time of 4.41 seconds. While 0.20 seconds isn’t a massive gap, it makes a huge difference on an NFL field.
Evan Williams – vertical jump
Williams’ expertise is the vertical jump. At the Combine, he lept to an astonishing 40.50 inches to finish second in the safeties group.
Texas Tech’s Tyle Owens was the only athlete in the group to outjump the former Duck, and he only did so by half an inch.
Evan Williams – broad jump
In the broad jump, Williams once again underperformed compared to what many fans and scouts expected. However, hitting the 10-foot-6 spot landed him in fourth place amongst his fellow safeties.
The former Duck safety performed remarkably well in the on-field drills. His sure hands and rock-solid footing were a highlight of his day. Following his interception and quick tackles at the Senior Bowl, Williams cemented his on-field abilities at the Combine.
After a fairly average day at the Combine, Williams will turn his attention to Oregon’s Pro Day. Ducks will return to Eugene for a final chance to show off their skills in an organized setting.
Oregon’s Pro Day will be held on March 12 at the Moshofsky Center in Eugene.