NFL Draft 2011 : RB Ryan Williams Will Be the Biggest Steal

In every single NFL draft, there is always a player selected who's under the radar and turns out to be a star. They're considered to be a draft "steal." 

Some of the more well-known steals over the years were Tom Brady, Joe Montana, Shannon Sharpe and Terrell Davis. A draft steal doesn't have to be drafted in the later rounds, it's just that they're drafted later than their NFL production played out to be.

I have analyzed 2011's draft class, and one player has really caught my eye: Virginia Tech running back Ryan Williams. 

The average fan may not be aware of Williams, but the real draft nut might say I'm crazy or that I'm spot on with my prediction. 

The Virginia Tech Hokie projects, by many, to be selected in the third to fourth round. And whoever that team will be to select Williams will be snagging a quality, well-rounded back. 

Williams only played two seasons at VT and was extremely effective in his first year. 

In 2009, Williams ran for 1,655 yards, which is a school record, and earned a spot on the third-team All-American squad. 

Despite such a promising season in '09, '10 was somewhat of a disappointment for Williams.

Playing much of last year injured, only playing in only six games, Williams accumulated 477 yards rushing and a solid 4.3 average, one yard less than his '09 average.

Following Williams' inconsistent year, he declared eligible for the NFL draft on January 9th.

Entering the combine, Williams expected to succeed; however, it was nothing but mediocre.

Williams ran a disappointing and below-average 4.61 40-yard dash time—not too impressive.

With Williams subpar 40-yard dash time, his stock has fallen, and in my books, he has become an even bigger steal.

Williams has all of the intangibles to be a quality NFL running back for many years. He has decent speed, good hands and is a punishing back with good size, standing in at 5'10" and 211 pounds. 

His style of running is well-suited for a long NFL career; he gives the hit rather than absorbing it like many running backs.

Out of every single prospect for 2011's draft, Williams is going to be this year's biggest steal.

Whichever team selects him in the middle rounds of the draft is going to be making a safe, smart and quality selection for a promising young running back.

NOTE: This article was first seen at PatriotsPlus.net. Be sure to follow Tony Santorsa on Twitter @   TonySantorsa.