Florida sleeper DB patiently waits

The coaching staff at Florida’s Chaminade-Madonna Prep are hopeful that a strong senior season capped by an impressive playoff performance will eventually help Stevie Williams find a college home.

Williams (5-10, 165, 4.4) was a key member of CMP’s drive to the Class 2A championship. In the 27-0 victory over Madison County in the state final, he did not allow a reception, had two pass break-ups, a blocked kick and a tackle for loss.

“I think the kid’s a big-time player who’s getting overlooked right now,” said CMP coach Mark Guandolo. “Stevie Williams is just a great athlete and a real play-maker. He’s a great cover corner, and he blocked six punts this year – scored on two of them. He blocked several field goals; returned two kickoffs and one punt for a touchdown. He just makes things happen in all phases of the game. He’s a versatile kid.

“Somebody’s going to get a very good player if they can get past this hang up on his size. He’s just a little light at 5-10 and 160. Iowa was showing a lot of interest at one point and had him up there for a visit, but they pulled out when they found someone bigger. But this is a kid with legit 4.4 speed and some big-time skills. I just think people are missing the boat right now. He’s going to put on weight when he gets into a college strength program.”

Guandolo said Pittsburgh is showing renewed interest late in the process. The Panthers’ staff recently requested more film on Williams. North Carolina and Northern Illinois are also staying in touch, along with several I-AAs.