D.J. shining more than ever Daniel Williams, DDN Staff Writer Tuesday, October 6, 2009
WILLIAMS

Denver Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams is a beast. But we already knew that, right? 

Sort of, because Williams has been a bit underappreciated during his tenure with the Broncos. 

He played in the shadow of Al Wilson for a couple seasons, and then was criticized over the past several seasons for not being able to lift Denver’s defense out of mediocrity — even after leading the team in tackles over that span.

But things have certainly changed this season, and not only is Williams shining in head coach Josh McDaniels’ new 3-4 defense, he is playing at a Pro Bowl level.

“D.J. could be a very good player in any system, I think,” McDaniels said yesterday at Dove Valley. “He has blitzed some and created some problems in the background. When he has a chance to run and get to the ball carrier where it is tough for somebody to get a body on him, he usually makes the tackle. That is a sign of a good linebacker.”

Surprisingly, Williams is still only 27 years old — with quite of a bit of tread left on his tires, too. Still, he told the Denver Daily News that he and Denver’s defense were tired of getting their [peep’s] kicked, and he loves the new defensive scheme.

“Losing doesn’t feel good, and we were sick and tired of getting beat. I really love this defense — it gives all of us a chance to make plays and that makes the game fun,” Williams said. “Elvis [Dumevil], Andra [Davis], we are all playing well right now and we’re having fun.”

Williams may play like his hair is on fire, but off the field he is incredibly mellow and easy to talk too. A team captain, Williams quietly leads by example, and he is a coach’s dream.

“His teammates listen and respond to him — great player to coach, too,” said defensive coordinator Nike Nolan. “He understands what we are trying to do and buys into it and does his role to the best of his ability each week.”

Williams nearly scored a touchdown after a Renaldo Hill forced fumble vs. Dallas on Sunday, and Williams also recorded a sack.

But the play Williams will be most remembered for on Sunday was a hit he made on receiver Roy Williams — at least it was memorable for Roy Williams.

“Never in my life have I been hit like that, from Pop Warner through my six years in the league,” Roy Williams said. “I was obviously hurting.”

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