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Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Quick Hits: Lions Wide Receiver Derrick Williams

By: Michael Niziolek

The Detroit Lions return game hasn’t had a lot of great playmakers the last few seasons, but Jim Schwartz hopes this year can be a little different. Detroit drafted Derrick Williams out of Penn State hoping that he could make an impact returning kicks….

“One of the reasons we drafted him was his return resume at Penn State; not only consistency, which is what he brought, but the ability to make a play,” Schwartz said. “Our philosophy is going to be aggressive on defense. We want to push the edge and try to score, and you need playmakers at the return position.”

But Williams is hoping he can also find some playing time at wide receiver. He’s had the chance for some extra reps because of injuries (Calvin Johnson and Bryant Johnson) and Schwartz said he’s doing a pretty good job.

Wiliams wasn’t as sharp in the second preseason game, but against the Atlanta Falcons in Detroit's first preseason game he caught a touchdown pass from Matthew Stafford.

In-Play! talked to the rookie about returning kicks, getting playing time and the quarterback battle…

IP: There have been quite a few injuries to receivers in camp, did you feel you had an opportunity to make an impression on the coaching staff and win more playing time?

DW: I’ve had that impression ever since I came in here. I didn’t come thinking that I wasn’t going to try to contribute to the team. I came here saying anyway possible, I’m going to do my best and go out there and make on an impact on this team year.

IP: You left Penn State with your name at the top of a lot of different returner categories, in your mind what makes a good kick returner?

DW: I think what makes a good returner is the people up front because if there’s not the blocking there then you’re going to have to fair catch. So many things can go wrong, I’ve always heard on punt returns there’s so many things that can go wrong and there’s just a slim chance that there’s going to be a big play. You just have to count on the other ten people on the field.

IP: Do you think it might be easier for you to make an impact on special teams this year, than on offense?

DW: I think I can shine there, but I think I can shine on the offense as well.

IP: You’ve played with both Daunte Culpepper and Matthew Stafford, have you noticed any differences between the two so far?

DW: (Laughs) Right now I’m just focusing on making sure I’m in the right spot. With me just learning everything and switching between different positions I just have to worry about my responsibilities.