For many rookies coming into the NFL, earning a roster spot is a process of stacking good days together. No matter where a player was taken in the draft, it means nothing if that player can’t continue his success and it could be the difference between making the team or having to settle for a spot on the practice squad.
As the Kansas City Chiefs begin training camp, it’s been a process for their young talent. Josh Simmons and Jalen Royals have already made an impact at the start of training camp and edge rusher Ashton Gillotte has also impressed despite an altercation last week.
While most of the Chiefs have taken to the next level strong, there’s one rookie that has stood out and is in the process of stacking those days together to meet the demands of the NFL.
Chiefs Rookie Nohl Williams Has a Way to Go After Rocky Start
Most rookies have their “Welcome to the NFL” moment and for third-round pick Nohl Williams, that happened during rookie minicamp. The California alum had a strong track record during his collegiate career including leading the country with seven interceptions and earning All-America honors in 2024.
But picking up Steve Spagnuolo’s defense was a challenge during rookie minicamp and OTAs, drawing pointed criticism from defensive backs coach Dave Merritt.
“His head is spinning a little bit,” Merritt admitted. “A lot of volume. He’s playing one position, corner. For that one position, he needs to continue to grow.”
To the credit of Williams, he’s begun to stack things together. He was able to make a “circus-like” interception on the first day of mandatory minicamp according to Timm Hamm of Athlon Sports and drew praise from Spagnuolo as the Chiefs arrived for training camp last month.
However, veteran mentor Trent McDuffie noted there's some things the rookie needs to clean up despite showing some flashes during the first two weeks of camp.
Trent McDuffie on Nohl Williams: "Really good ball skills. He's long, and he's one of those guys that just competes. He's smart and knows the defense really well. We've got to clean up a few things in his technique. A few grabs here and there, but once we iron those things out, I… pic.twitter.com/Q5TbBroQIb
— Brad Henson Productions (@BradHensonPro) July 28, 2025
As a Day 2 pick, Williams probably doesn’t have to worry about his job security. But it would be nice if Williams’ trajectory continued to push for a starting spot as he gets more comfortable in the NFL.