Have You Heard of Me: Miami Central (Fla.) SS/OLB Michael Williams, Jr.
By Jerry Williamson
Class-of-2018 hybrid (SS/OLB) Michael Williams, Jr. (6'1", 190lbs.) of Miami Central, a once unheralded prospect, is beginning to see his recruitment soar, after routing national recognized teams that featured a bundle of power five conference recruits. When it comes to playing on the big stage (or against highly sought after recruits) the Rockets' little-known hard-hitting safety, Williams, Jr. -- never shys away from competition, and always seems find a starting role (not by default) surrounded by blue-chip teammates. TALENTED BUT OVERLOOKED
As a sophomore, the 3-year varsity starter, captured the Class 8A state championship (with Charles W. Flanagan) as the starting nickel and strong safety. How good is he athletically? Williams, Jr. started in the same 4-2-5 secondary as Devil Gil (Michigan), Stanford Samuels III (FSU), Faion Hicks (Wisconsin), and Josh Metellus (Michigan). Here's more insight. This past off-season as a junior, Williams, Jr. started in the same secondary for national recognized Florida Fire 7-v-7 All-Stars. The Div. 2 commit from Valdosta State, earned a starting job among Div. 1 recruits such as Traquan Butler (6-D1 offers), Jermaine McMillan (12-D1 offers), Miguel Edwards (Oklahoma commit), and Hunter Goetz (4-D1 offers). Williams, Jr. this fall, has a knack for being at the right place, at the right time. If not for (5) mishandled (or dropped) interceptions, as of today, he leads South Florida in the stat category. His stats on the season throughout five games consist of 30 tackles, 12 PD, (5) mishandled interceptions, 1 FR, and 1 TD. The senior, who runs a 4.5 (40) yard dash and moves very well on film, is gradually rising to the surface. After the Rockets latest victory vs. Miami Norland, where he returned a fumble 50-yards for a touchdown (including 5 solo tackles and 1 fumble recovery), has reportedly received verbal offers by UNLV and FAU.
His recruiting process could expand within a matter of time, as division one programs such as Bowling Green and Arkansas has hoped on his recruiting trail. Williams, Jr. has defeated Bishop Gorman (Nev.), Chaminda-Mondonna, and Miami Booker T. Washington. He's locked and loaded for the next level for anyone interested. He sports a 1220 SAT and 3.3 unweighted GPA. He will certainly not have to redshirt due to lacking knowledge of the game, especially at his position. He has a FSU bloodline of coaching. His defensive coordinators and position coaches has consisted of FSU's great Devin Bush, Stanford Samuels, and Derrick Gibson. The little-known prospect, is gradually growing into a recruit. The Rockets' added a wealth of unheralded prospects such as Michael Williams, Jr. who are making an impact and are seeing their recruitment sky-rocket.
