Signing Day Capsule: A.J. Williams

A.J. Williams is the fifth commitment in the Wolverines 2012 recruiting class. Get up to date on his recruitment and learn more about this imposing lineman and receiver.

A.J. Williams
Tight End 6-6/275/4.90
Sycamore HS (Cincinnati, OH)
NR: **** - Position Rank: 27

Scout.com Player Video
Senior Highlights – Watch Video
Sophomore Highlights – Watch Video

His Recruiting Story
When you’re 6-foot-6, more than 240 pounds, possess aggressive blocking skills, soft hands, and can boast a 40-yard dash time in less than five seconds as a sophomore, people take notice. Such is the case with Williams, who also plays basketball in high school. Though playing on a run dominant offense, and catching few passes his last season, his explosiveness off the line, run blocking, and protection skills caught the eye of scouts and coaches alike. His ability to make receptions when needed and ability to road grade defensive ends were critical in his team’s success and earned him offers from Michigan State, Arkansas, North Carolina State, Boston College. However, his affinity for Michigan and Coach Hoke led him to be blue. “That’s one of the best head coaches I’ve talked to,” stated Williams. “He actually cares about every single player.” His excellent senior campaign was evident by his OHSAA all-state first team selection.

His Commitment Comments
"Yes sir, I'm officially maize and blue. Michigan baby," said Williams. “I didn't want to miss out on a chance to play at my dream school, so I asked myself what I was waiting for. I thought I might as pull this trigger."

GoBlueWolverine Commentary
Big and powerful is probably the best way to describe A.J. His size may result in a position change as it did his senior season of football in high-school. Will that be the case at Michigan is the question? With lack of tight end depth, the Wolverines are going to need players in the position quickly. Williams is the only current commit that has the size to start immediately with any success in both receiving and blocking, but one also has to believe having played exclusively at tackle during his senior campaign his receiving skills have taken a hit. Williams showed as a senior that he is capable of being a high level offensive tackle. He could potentially stay at tight end, but we like his upside more if he were to stay at tackle. He's a strong kid who keeps his feet nicely and finishes his blocks. He does well when asked to move, pull, and work in the second level. He will have to continue to refine his technique and playing with better pad level. - Allen Trieu.