Welcome to SKOL Search!
This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.
Background
Caleb Williams
- USC
- Transfer from Oklahoma
- Height-6010
- Weight-215 lbs
- Third-year Junior
- 5-Star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats: 738-of-1,108 (66.6%), 10,098 yards, 93 touchdowns, 14 interceptions, 153 carries, 1,539 yards, 27 touchdowns
- Games watched: Stanford 2023, Arizona 2023, Notre Dame 2023 Washington 2023
Strengths
The first thing that stands out with Williams is the arm talent. He makes everything look easy despite doing really difficult things.
His arm strength is unreal and natural. He can throw the ball from numerous arm angles and it pops with or without his base being underneath him.
Has a really good understanding of RPOs. Shows an advanced knowledge of how to manipulate the defender at the mesh point. USC used him on some modern triple-option looks with a sprint out that were really effective.
He isn’t afraid to run the ball either. Has an aptitude to run the football at a high level, displaying great vision and elusiveness in the open field.
Williams is capable of fully reading the field. Shows that he can work backside in NFL-style progressions.
Weaknesses
Pressure can get to Williams and his lack of fundamental mechanics can amplify the issue. When pressure gets into his face, he tries to play hero ball but some of those throws end up being poor due to those mechanical issues.
He also tends to play hero ball a little bit too much. When he can take the layup, he is looking far too often to make the big play.
Arm arrogance can get him into trouble. He knows he can make any and every throw but will make a decision or two that will have you wanting to pull your hair out.
Williams has an overall good sense of pressure but struggles at times to feel pressure from his blindside.
Overview
| Arm Strength | 9.6/10 |
| Accuracy | 8.9/10 |
| Mechanics | 8.2/10 |
| Ball Placement | 8.6/10 |
| Throwing Motion | 9.1/10 |
| Progressions | 8.5/10 |
| Decision Making | 8.6/10 |
| Functional Mobility | 9.1/10 |
| Durability | 8.6/10 |
| Poise | 8.4/10 |
| Grade | 87.6/100 First Round |
Williams might not be the second coming of Mahomes, but he is really good in his own right. He might be best suited to sit for a while to get the mechanics down so he can truly take things to the next level.
