Summary

Dorian Williams was drafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, Round 3, (pick 91) out of Tulane. Williams is a young, ascending linebacker with the tools to be a high‑value contributor. His strengths lie in his pursuit speed, tackling ability, and run‑game instincts. He’s shown he can fill up the stat sheet and be a ball‑hawking presence in the middle of the field. However, he’s not yet complete—his coverage skills and block‑shedding need improvement, and he must refine his consistency in assignments and technique to become a true every‑down difference‑maker.

In essence: Williams offers the traits of a fast, instinctive freak who is still refining the polish. He has starter potential, especially in defenses that ask linebackers to move sideline‑to‑sideline, fill lanes quickly, and make plays in space—but also may be used initially more as a specialized or rotational piece until his weaknesses are addressed.

Strengths

• Tackling machine & high motor – Williams is known for his pursuit ability and high tackle counts in college; he transitioned into a heavy‑tackler role with the Bills. BuffaLowDown

• Speed and athleticism for a linebacker – At the combine he posted a 4.49 s 40‑yard dash, showing above‑average speed for his position. NFL.com

• Run‑game involvement and pursuit – He shows good instincts and willingness to fill gaps and chase ball carriers down from behind. NFL Draft Diamonds

• Emerging on the NFL stage – As a young player, he’s shown flashes of being able to step into bigger roles, especially in light of injuries to veteran starters. RotoWire

Weaknesses

• Coverage limitations – While athletic, his grades in coverage have lagged. For example, his coverage grade from PFF in 2024 was low (40.2). PFF

• Block‑shedding and physicality vs bigger offensive players – Reports noted his hand usage and strength to disengage from blocks are still developing for the NFL level. Bleacher Report

• Consistency & assignment discipline – Some scouting noted lapses in zone reads, getting caught staring at the backfield, or not locating threat quickly enough. Bleacher Report

• Ceiling and role definition – While he has strong traits, he isn’t yet a clear standout in one singular specialty (coverage, pass‑rush, run stop) and may need time to carve a defined niche. Bleacher Report

Fit & Outlook

Williams fits well in the Bills’ defensive scheme, which values speed, versatility, and linebackers who can play both the run and pass. With veterans ahead of him (such as Matt Milano and Shaq Thompson) and potential injuries/openings, Williams provides a younger, athletic option who can plug into various sets and sub‑packages.

• Short‑Term: Expect Williams to continue seeing significant snaps, likely in base and sub‑packages, with opportunities to start or rotate heavily as he matures. His tackling ability should keep him on the field.

• Medium‑Term: If he improves his coverage and block‑shed technique, he could ascend to being a full‑time starter and possibly a defensive leader for his unit.

• Risk/Factors: If he cannot refine his weaknesses (especially coverage) or if he struggles physically against stronger blockers, his role might settle into a strong rotational piece rather than a star.

• Ceiling: A very good starting linebacker with potential to be among the better players at his position if fully developed.

• Floor: A reliable backup/rotational linebacker who excels in run support but lacks the all‑around impact of top starters.