Summertime Blog Bits: Linebacker Jacquian Williams

In this installment of Summertime Blog Bits, we hear from linebacker Jacquian Williams.

Q: Now that you’ve had a full off-season to really sit down and understand the intricacies of the play book, how much of a measurable difference do you think it will make when you get to camp?
A:  Well from the linebackers’ perspective, I think we have a better understanding not of just our role, but how our role fits in with the rest of the defense. Last year we were just given our playbooks and it was up to us to learn what we could and how fast. So I think this year when we get to camp, the linebackers are going to be better in terms of making more plays, which is the goal.

Q: What about the playbook for you personally? How much more have things slowed down for you?
A: Things have slowed down for me a lot, and I think for the other rookie linebackers from last year as well. We definitely respect this new opportunity we have this year.

Q: How much better are you personally, having gone through the weight and conditioning program as well as your personal grasp of your role in the defense?
A: There are still some thing that need to be cleaned up, but overall, I’m learning and getting comfortable and more confident.

Q: What kind of things need to be cleaned up?
A: Just different things from a football aspect like drops and coverage, and recognition.

Q: Last year, there was a belief held by some that the rookies sort of had a pass given that you didn’t have the classroom time, the weight room time, and all the other stuff that was wiped out due to the lockout. With that said, now that you’ve gone through a complete off-season, is there more or less pressure when you go out there this year?
A: I don’t know if there’s any difference. There is still the pressure of learning your assignments, the new wrinkles that coach wants to run, and all that and then going out there and showing that you’re better in your technique. So I guess you could say there is more pressure because you don’t want to slow down and rest on your laurels from last year.