Don't blink, Westfield's Williams thrives on the DL

For Popeye Williams, life on the gridiron happens in the blink of an eye.

“When the ball snaps, I try to explode off the ball and get to the ball carrier or the quarterback,” the Westfield High School standout told Sideline Prep Sports Report.

It’s been that way since he was in the first grade and his youth coaches continued to put him on the line.

“I was always getting in the backfield because I was faster than most linemen. So, I’ve been playing there since the third grade,” Williams said.

As a sophomore last year, Williams notched 24 total tackles, nine of which were solo stops. That may not sound like a lot, but you have to consider, again, he was a sophomore.

This year, he is focused on a breakout season and backing up some of the accolades that have already begun coming his way.

“I am not really surprised, but I am definitely excited and enjoying the moment. I’d attribute the success to my parents and brothers for supporting me when I need or am asked to go to a camp or showcase. My head coach, Coach Gilbert, always encourages me, but he coaches me hard and I like that,” Williams said.

He also singled out his position coach, Coach Comer, and the entire staff at Westfield.

However, the greatest x factor to his success could be who his trainers are – former Indianapolis Colt defensive standout Robert Mathis. In addition, Dan Muir is also training Williams.

“Being trained by Rob and Dan has really helped me become more confident in my moves. The knowledge they give us guys are priceless. And the good thing is, they train me hard even though I’m only in high school. Our coaches do a great job with going over film with going over film with us to help prepare us for games. With that, I’m always confident going up against any offensive lineman,” Williams said.

With all that hard work, Williams is confident it will pay off this season with the Shamrocks, who went 6-5 last year.

“The goal is to win sectionals and then a state title. Individually, I want to be a better leader on and off the field. I want to have double digit sacks and develop more into a better football player,” he said.

Williams has drawn the attention of both Purdue and Indiana, but he admits the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed recruiting down.

“I am looking for a school that will benefit me academically and athletically. I want to be developed to be a dominant college player,” Williams said.

Currently, Cincinnati, Kentucky and Penn State, all of whom he has offers from, are the leaders.