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CFB National Championship: NFL Draft Prospects to Watch

By Eric Gamboa

Jan 8, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; View of the trophy and helmets for Clemson Tigers and Alabama Crimson Tide during the head coaches news conference at the Tampa Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 8, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; View of the trophy and helmets for Clemson Tigers and Alabama Crimson Tide during the head coaches news conference at the Tampa Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Jake Browning (3) looks to pass as Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) pressures during the second quarter in the 2016 CFP semifinal at the Peach Bowl at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Jake Browning (3) looks to pass as Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Tim Williams (56) pressures during the second quarter in the 2016 CFP semifinal at the Peach Bowl at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

Tim Williams, Alabama Crimson Tide, Outside Linebacker

Alabama edge rusher Tim Williams is the second-ranked OLB in this year’s NFL Draft, per CBS Sports. While the No. 1 OLB spot goes to all-world OLB Myles Garrett, Williams is no scrub.

In fact, the gap between Garrett and Williams is not as large as many analysts have made it out to be. The 49ers would be smart to trade down in this year’s draft and pick up the less-hyped Williams.

Williams has been a very productive sack artist for the Crimson Tide. He has recorded 18.5 sacks in 24 games. Beyond his sack totals, Williams is an excellent run defender, stacking and shedding like a seasoned pro. Williams will be an excellent OLB in the NFL when it is all said and done, and the 49ers would be smart to trade down taking Williams later in the draft.

Next: 49ers: Why San Francisco is a Top Destination for GM Candidates

Follow me on Twitter at @EricGamboa01 or on Facebook at @EricGamboaNinerNoise.