Schools dropping in on Williams
MADISON, Fla. - Three-star cornerback Shedrick Williams of Madison (Fla.) Madison County is prepared to make his final season of high school football his best one yet. The 5-foot-11, 175-pound defensive back says that the first week of spring practice has gone very well and is setting a foundation for success.
"It has been going very good," Williams said. "Our coach has just talked to us about doing better than we did last year and focusing on our goals. He just talked to us about completing our long-term goals."
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The ultimate goal for Williams and his teammates is to return to Orlando and win the state championship. Last year, the Cowboys finished as runner-up after losing to Delray Beach (Fla.) American Heritage in the championship game.
"We definitely want to get back there," Williams said. "We want to win. I think we have to work harder, not be selfish, and just come together as a team."
Williams, along with some of his other standout teammates, have made Madison County a popular destination for college coaches this spring.
"I have heard a lot from Louisville, Florida, and Florida State - they have all been by," Williams said. "Arkansas is supposed to be coming this week."
In addition to starring as a defensive back, Williams also shows his value as a kick and punt return. The success of Joe Adams on special teams at Arkansas has been pointed out to Williams.
"I looked them up and basically just wanted to see some stuff on their coaches," Williams said of the Razorbacks. "My coach has told me about their special teams. I know they had the most return yards and touchdowns in the SEC (with Joe Adams). That is something that stood out to me."
Another SEC school that has been consistently showing interest in Williams is the Florida Gators. He made his way to Gainesville earlier in the year.
"I visited Florida previously and it was phenomenal," Williams said of the Gators. "The atmosphere was great. I liked what they offer in the medical field. I liked how big the (rehab) room was.
"I have been dealing with Coach T-Rob (Travaris Robinson)," Williams added. "He told me I could be a great return guy and that I can also cover people. I like him a lot."
Another in-state school that has been in the picture is Florida State. The Seminoles have a lot of history with Madison players.
"I have visited over there," Williams said of the Seminoles. "I liked it as well. I like their rehab facility, the pool where you can work.
"I am disappointed they haven't offered me yet," Williams added. "I still like them. It just bothered me that they didn't offer me right then and there. I still hope they offer me. It would mean a lot."
Louisville's recruitment of Williams is being done by Florida native Ron Dugans. The prospect and coach have really hit it off, allowing the Cardinals to get firmly into the picture.
"Coach Dugans is a great guy," Williams said. "He told me I am good enough to start my freshman year. I know about Coach Dugans because he is basically from Tallahassee. He has told me about Louisville. He tells me he will take care of me if I am down there. I want to find out more about them."
In addition to the four schools that Williams spoke about, he said he is also very interested in Alabama, Ole Miss, and South Carolina. He is hoping to make his final decision over the next few months.
"I want to make my decision at the start of next year, before my senior season," Williams said.
Mississippi State is the most recent offer for Williams. In addition to the Bulldogs, he also claims offers from Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisville, Massachusetts, Ole Miss, Pittsburgh, South Carolina, South Florida, and Western Kentucky.