Dae Williams commits to SMU

Sapulpa (Okla.) linebacker Dae Williams joined SMU's 2016 recruiting class when he committed to the Mustangs on July 17. Not only does he expect to make an impact as a freshman, he wants to do so on both offense and defense.

While SMU offered Williams as a linebacker, some schools did offer him as a running back. He has true two-way potential and already received the green light for having an opportunity on offense as well for the Mustangs.

"I plan on playing linebacker but coach [Chad Morris] actually gave me the option to play on both sides of the ball," Williams said. "So if I have that ability and opportunity then I'll probably play some running back also."

Williams will surely be vying for those extra snaps on offense, but he is focused on his primary objective as a defensive player. Playing running back himself, he has a great understanding of how to stop opposing rushers. He believes his skills and instinct will really fit defensive coordinator Van Malone's system.

"I think I'll be able to fit in really well. Definitely more of a run-stop defense, so I'm really excited about that opportunity," Williams said. "I think I'll fit in just perfectly."

Like many recruits, Williams wants to have that opportunity to make an impact immediately as a freshman. SMU's football program is rebuilding under Morris, meaning that these next few recruiting classes for the Mustangs could see the field early.

"The ability that I have to come in and play as a freshman, I really like that. That was the main reason I picked SMU over the other schools," Williams said.

But Williams' commitment to the Mustangs does go beyond just early playing time. He said he really likes the campus and SMU's business program, as well as feeling extremely comfortable with the coaching staff.

"I fell in love with the coaching staff, and I know what they're trying to do," Williams said.

Linebackers coach Archie McDaniel has developed a strong relationship with his future player, and they can talk together simply as friends. While their communication will likely be different on the field, Williams credits McDaniel's easy-going personality to how they've become so close.

"We're really close. We've been talking a lot and I'm able to talk to him just like anybody else," Williams said. "I think I've gotten to know him enough personally to be able to talk to him on a more personal level."

The linebacker has also enjoyed getting closer with his future teammates. He and the other 2016 recruiting class members have made a group chat on Twitter to stay in consistent contact. Williams said, "We've actually gotten closer as a group before we've even really gotten to meet each other."

At 6-foot-1 and 220 pounds, Williams' build compliments his versatile skills. He has the size to deliver hits at linebacker and shake off hits at running back, but still has the athleticism to provide speed wherever he plays.