NASHVILLE – James Williams was at Cam Ward's Pro Day in Miami.
The Titans linebacker, who also played at the U, was there supporting the quarterback the Titans would ultimately pick first overall in April's NFL Draft.
"But the first time I met Cam was here with the Titans," Williams said. "It was great to see us pick him. I could have played with him last year (at Miami but turned pro). And now, going into his rookie year, I am his teammate, and have a chance to play with him. It's a blessing. God put us together, and God is going to let us shine together."
Williams, headed into his second NFL season, has a chance to earn a bigger role at inside linebacker in 2025 after playing primarily on special teams for the Titans in his first year.
He's competing with Cedric Gray, Otis Reese II and several others to earn a starting spot alongside veteran Cody Barton in Tennessee defense.
Williams, by the way, is known as James Williams Sr. now, after becoming a dad to a baby boy at the start of his rookie year. His son will turn one at the end of next month.
"(He) gives me something to play for, the name on my back, and the name on my front," Williams said of his son. "The Sr. stands out, and it makes me want to go harder to take care of him and make sure he is good in life."
Williams has worked hard to make sure he's in a position to compete when camp begins.
After making the transition from a college safety to an NFL linebacker, Williams is more comfortable now, and he feels like he's learned a lot. He's in better shape physically, and hungry. He said he cut weight and added more muscle, which makes him feel "more stout, stronger, and faster."
He believes his flexibility, and mobility, have improved as well.
Williams said he learned a lot about being patient last year as a rookie, when he played in 13 games, with one start, and tallied 19 tackles on defense, in addition to seven more on special teams.
Wiliams said coaches have told him "a lot of things are coming for me," as it relates to having a chance to move around, and be more effective in the defense.
"When your time comes, it should allow you to be who you want to be when your time gets here," Williams said. "Going into my second year I feel like I am stronger, faster, smarter, and I feel like the game has slowed down for me. I am understanding things at a new position, and I'm ready to compete.
"I feel like I came in here last year and did the little things, and showed them I am capable of being a pro. I am willing to change my position, and understand the things that come with being a pro. Now, I am ready to continue to put work in to be who I want to be. I want to get the job done."
Asked about his hunger level to be good, Williams replied:
"I'm starving. I'm starving right now," he said. "I've got to go eat."
