Dwight Williams to UCLA: Bruins Land 4-Star LB Prospect

UCLA strengthened its defense on Saturday after Dwight Williams committed to the Bruins. The 4-star linebacker will be a great addition to Jim Mora's defense.

Williams announced his decision on Saturday, Jan. 3, during the 2014 Army All-American Game. 247 Sports' Justin Hopkins passes along the news:

Jeff Drummond of Fox Sports passes along this quote from Williams:

The decision is somewhat surprising, as Williams threw everyone off the scent by tweeting this photo with no UCLA hat present:

According to 247Sports' composite rankings, Williams is 21st among outside linebackers and the 249th-best player in the country.

While not a freak athlete, the Junipero Serra High School senior is more than prepared to contribute at the collegiate level. He has great closing speed and reads the game in a way that allows him to be in the right position to make a play.

It's in the open field that you'll see Williams excel.

Along with his instincts comes a deftness in pass coverage. Williams can change directions very well and has enough speed to track down opposing players from behind.

Most of Williams' physical problems stem from his size. He's listed at 6'1", 205 pounds, so even if he adds a little more muscle when he gets on campus, he remain a tad undersized for the linebacker position.

That's not to say that Williams can't become a star in college, but his small stature will likely stunt some of his potential.

He's played inside linebacker in high school but will almost certainly be an outside linebacker in college because he's not equipped to handle the punishment in the middle of the defense.

Another problem area is his tackling. On the whole, Williams does well to get in front of the ball-carrier, square up and make the tackle. But there have been enough times where he's hit the opposing player and failed to wrap up.

It's only a minor issue and should be ironed out with the right coaching.

Williams should become a steady defender at the next level, and UCLA received a major boost on Saturday with his commitment.