We are down under three weeks until Texas football kicks off. Today, it’s another “Breakout Sunday” and it’s centered around one of the more fascinating players on Texas’ roster. Jonah Williams, the dual-sport athlete, shined during the first fall camp scrimmage yesterday. I expect that to be the start of a true breakout season, possibly landing him a starting role by seasons’ end.
Jonah Williams is a player I’ve been dragging my feet on. The injury he suffered early in the baseball season put him in a position to focus his mind on football, but physically, he was still limited. Coming into fall camp, he was viewed as a true “wildcard” with a variety of paths heading into this season. However, after yesterday, I feel comfortable saying Williams is poised for a breakout this season.
Outside of a flu outbreak, Williams stole the headlines yesterday. He seemingly ran with the first defense, during which he intercepted Arch Manning in the redzone. He was also reported to have a TFL. That is a performance that confirms all the expectations around Williams coming into college. Given his dual-sport status, it was difficult for him to find his footing early in his career. After the injury, he was able to fully turn his attention to football and it’s seemingly paying off.
Now, a scrimmage performance is far from a guarantee of greatness. However, Williams getting reps with the first defense and making the most of them matters. Derek Williams Jr. is still likely the starter across from Jelani McDonald, but I don’t see that as set in stone. Williams is earning reps early in the season, and I fully expect his ability to shine through.
The safety position is arguably the thinnest on the Longhorns roster. It seems both McDonald and Williams Jr. are playing at a high level but the depth options hadn’t stepped up, until yesterday. It seems Williams, as well as Kobe Black, are starting to find their footing. I’ll bet on Williams to become the story over the next two weeks, find his way on the field early, and begin living up to his 5-star billing.
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This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Countdown to Kickoff: Texas safety Jonah Williams poised for breakout
Reporting by Tommy Bresee, Longhorns Wire / Longhorns Wire
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By Tommy Bresee, Longhorns Wire | USA TODAY Network
