North Carolina State University Athletics
Vikings: Brian Williams To Stay At Corner
6/10/2002 12:00:00 AM | Football
June 10, 2002
By Tony Haynes
Raleigh, N.C.-When they selected Brian Williams in the fourth round (105th overall) of April's NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings had every intention of using the NC State cornerback at free safety. But after getting a close look at the speedy High Point native in a couple of spring mini-camps, head coach Mike Tice and his staff may be having second thoughts.
During a three-day mini-camp over the weekend, Minnesota defensive coordinator Willie Shaw said that Williams would remain at cornerback.
Either way, the Vikings have themselves a versatile player who is capable of playing both positions while also excelling on special teams.
Said Tice after the draft, "he's played cover corner for NC State; we think he can play free safety for us. We're going to start him out at corner to get him comfortable and move him to free safety."
But Shaw's comments last weekend seemed to indicate more of a long-term commitment to keeping Williams at corner. If he performs well during preseason camp, Williams could earn himself some playing time in a secondary that is relatively young by NFL standards.
After leading the Wolfpack in tackles (131) from the free safety position in his sophomore year, Williams was moved to cornerback for his final two college seasons. Along with displaying solid cover skills, he also gained the reputation of being one of the ACC's most physical corners. A three-year starter at NC State, Williams finished his career with 262 tackles, 20 pass deflections and five interceptions. He also recorded a total of five blocked kicks on special teams.
Williams and the Vikings have not yet come to terms on a contract.
