2017 NFL Draft Daily Chicago Bears Target: Utah Safety Marcus Williams

Oct 10, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes defensive back Marcus Williams (20) intercepts a pass intended for California Golden Bears wide receiver Kenny Lawler (4) during the first quarter at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 10, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes defensive back Marcus Williams (20) intercepts a pass intended for California Golden Bears wide receiver Kenny Lawler (4) during the first quarter at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /
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In our continuing look at possible Chicago Bears targets in the 2017 NFL Draft, we take a look at Utah safety Marcus Williams.

We continue our look at possible Chicago Bears prospects in the 2017 NFL Draft by profiling Utah safety Marcus Williams.

If the Bears decided to go in a different direction other than Jamal Adams in the first round, they can go with Williams. Many analysts project him to go in the second or third round. They’ve had trouble with the safety position for years, and Williams could be the answer.

Williams contributed to Utah’s success from his freshman season. At 6-foot-1, 202 pounds, he has the height to go against tall receivers or tight ends. He needs to bulk up a little to play physically against the tight ends, but the same can be said of many of the prospects entering the NFL.

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One of the troubles the Bears’ secondary had defensively in 2016 was causing turnovers. They ranked dead last in turnovers. Adding Williams helps in that area. He created 18 turnovers (11 interceptions, 4 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries) in his three seasons with the Utes. Those are serious ball-hawking skills that the Bears desperately need.

Williams moves smoothly on the field. He has good speed to get to the play, even if he starts from deep in the secondary. His instincts are excellent, which allow him to diagnose a play quickly and make the right decision.

Williams played basketball, so his leaping ability is great. When it comes to fighting for the ball, he can outjump most receivers. He has soft hands like a wide receiver, and that helps him get the ball. He uses great technique when making a tackle. While he’s not physical, he gets the job done and gets the ball carrier down.

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The Bears need a ball-hawking safety who can swoop in from deep in the secondary who also has the speed to be the last line of defense. Williams would make a good a good pick for a team that needs excitement. He won’t make the big hits, but causing turnovers in any way brings excitement and helps the offense.