It might not have been an easy path, but Damarion Williams is about to reach his destination. After spending time at Highland Community College and Houston, the talented defensive back is ready to make an impact for an NFL club.
Williams, a two-time captain at Houston, is a tough cornerback willing to help out the team in run support. That’s one of many reasons why he projects well as a slot corner.
Not only is Williams able to lower his shoulder and make plays against the run, he can change directions quickly and cut off underneath routes. He proved that throughout his time with the Cougars.
We caught up with Damarion Williams to discuss his time at Houston, experience at the NFL Combine, what role suits him best and much more.
The Spun: How has this draft process been treating you?
Damarion Williams: It’s definitely a busy process, but it’s been treating me well. I’m just taking all these experiences in. You only get to do it one time in your career, so I’m just enjoying the process.
The Spun: What was the NFL Combine like?
DW: It was a great experience. Growing up, I watched the NFL Combine on TV. To actually go there and see what they do behind the scenes is just amazing. I got to talk to some great coaches and be around the top players in college football. I like being able to talk to other players and learn what they’ve been through.
Headed to Indy 😤
Shoutout to @loganhall_, @FTK2662 & @MarcusJonesocho on being invited to the NFL Combine!#GoCoogs pic.twitter.com/C7ZNs7iBy2
— Houston Football (@UHCougarFB) February 9, 2022
The Spun: Houston has sent a lot of players to the NFL in recent years. Have you received any pointers from former teammates?
DW: I spoke to Grant Stuard about it. He was a big high-energy guy. I hit him up and asked him what I should expect from coaches and things like that. The biggest thing he told me is to be myself. If they like me, they like me. If they don’t, they don’t. That’s what I learned from him.
The Spun: What makes you a unique prospect?
DW: I’m a physical cornerback. I always accept the challenge. What separates me from other cornerbacks is my preparation. I’m really versatile and I’m willing to adapt to any situation. I think that’s what makes me unique.
The Spun: You’ve played on the outside and in the slot. Where do you envision yourself at the next level?
DW: I’m definitely cool playing either spot, but I see myself making a lot of plays in the slot. I can lock down receivers in the slot and make plays in the run game. Cornerbacks on the outside usually don’t have to make plays against the run. But when you’re in the slot, you get the best of both worlds.
The Spun: Who was the toughest wide receiver you went up against in college?
DW: I’d go with Calvin Austin. That’s an easy pick. Calvin Austin is different. He plays with a chip on his shoulder. He’s always looking to work regardless of who is lined up against him. I respect the hell out of him.
The Spun: What part of your game have you been working on during this draft process?
DW: I’ve been trying to become a more explosive player. I’ve been doing a lot of strength drills and getting better at my technique. Once I get more explosive, you’ll see me make a lot more exciting plays.
Always learn things during pre-game talks with coaches and @UHCougarFB staff raved about CB Damarion Williams. Nobody in UH program loves ball & competes more than @FTK2662. Quick-footed three-year starter projects as nickel/free at next level.#TheDraftStartsInMOBILE™️ pic.twitter.com/Nzy3J04gPu
— Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_SB) October 8, 2021
The Spun: What would it mean to you to hear your name called during the draft?
DW: It would mean the world to me. I’ve been working my entire life for this. I’ve been envisioning this scenario. Once it happens, I’ll be excited about it. But you have to remember that once you get drafted you got to get ready for work.
The Spun: What is an NFL team getting in Damarion Williams?
DW: On the field, you’re getting a dominant player. I’m someone who’ll produce each and every week. Off the field, I’m going to invest in the youth. Growing up, I didn’t really have camps I could go to. I want to be able to help out kids with football camps.
Damarion Williams (#6) is an outside corner that I have highlighted before. Here, Houston has him at safety and he does a great job jarring the ball away from Erik Ezukama.
Stuff like this is what sold me on Williams over the summer. I hope he keeps up the good work. pic.twitter.com/5geqSarHGC
— Nick Price (checkmark) (@PriceCheck3) September 5, 2021
Williams finished his Houston career with 163 total tackles, 20 pass breakups, three interceptions and a forced fumble.
Though some NFL scouts might be concerned about Williams’ frame, the reality is he’s a versatile defensive back with a nose for the football. It’s hard to coach those type of traits.
We’ll find out where Damarion Williams’ pro career will begin next month.
You can read more of our interviews with athletes or media stars here.