Texas Lineman Cameron Williams Makes Bold Move, Enters NFL Draft: What’s Next for the Star Tackle?

Texas Longhorns standout right tackle Cameron Williams has officially announced his decision to forgo his final year of eligibility and enter the NFL Draft, sharing the news with ESPN on Tuesday. The 6-foot-5, 335-pound lineman, who is only in his true junior year, has been a cornerstone of Texas's formidable offensive line, which garnered attention as a finalist for the prestigious Joe Moore Award in 2024.

Over the past three seasons, Williams has built an impressive resume, starting 16 games this past season and playing in a total of 37 games during his college career. His formidable skills have drawn significant attention from scouts, positioning him as one of the top players available in this year's NFL Draft. According to ESPN’s rankings, Williams is projected to be the 28th best overall player and holds the distinction of being the third-ranked offensive tackle by analyst Matt Miller. In contrast, Mel Kiper Jr. places him at seventh among tackles, illustrating the high regard in which he is held.

“I feel like I'm ready, and it's the best decision for me,” Williams expressed, demonstrating confidence as he looks toward the next phase of his football career.

With a growing demand for capable tackles in the NFL, Williams’s impressive size and rich experience on the field make him a prime candidate for teams in need of fresh talent. Over the past season, he logged an astounding 938 snaps, achieving a remarkably low pressure rate of just 2.6%, allowing only 14 pressures from 533 pass-blocking plays, according to in-depth statistics from ESPN.

One NFL scout highlighted Williams’s immense potential, stating, “He’s powerful, great at the point of attack, and possesses a strong anchor—traits that are invaluable for someone of his size.” This endorsement from industry experts further underscores why teams will likely vie for his services come draft day.

Describing his player ethos, Williams said conquering the NFL's challenges is an exhilarating prospect. “You’ll be getting a leader and someone who just wants to work and be a dawg,” he added, emphasizing his commitment to hard work and team spirit.

As he prepares for this monumental transition, Williams took a moment to reflect on his time at the University of Texas. He expressed gratitude towards his coaches, including head coach Steve Sarkisian and offensive line coach Kyle Flood, as well as the strength and nutrition staff, specifically praising Brad Solomon. “I'm very appreciative of Texas,” Williams stated. “I'm blessed I had the opportunity to go play for Texas.”

Cameron Williams’s journey is a thrilling precursor to what promises to be an exciting NFL career. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on him to see which team will be lucky enough to secure this rising star. Be sure to stay tuned for more updates on William’s draft journey and his inevitable impact on the league!