SMSB E.L.I.T.E. Spotlight: Caleb Williams
By Perry A. Farrell
SMSB Editor-in-Chief
This summer’s trip to Tennessee with his Sound Mind Sound Body teammates was a good one for Canton wide receiver/defensive back Caleb Williams.
Soon after returning from the tournament, he received his first offer: From Tennessee, a Power 5 school with a big reputation.
“We down there for a 7 on 7 tournament,’’ said the 2024 athlete. “They reached out after we got back from the tournament. They said they liked my film, and they offered a week later. (Curtis) Blackwell texted me and said they really liked my film. I think they saw me at the tournament and found my film.’’
Williams plays both ways for Canton, but his future is likely in the defensive secondary.
“I like both positions,’’ said Williams. “I believe wide receivers and defensive backs are the playmakers on the field. When you play wide receiver, you’re one of the best athletes on the field. When you’re a defensive back you’re checking one of the best athletes on the field. That’s what I want to be.’’
Williams is 6-foot, 168-pounds.
“I’m trying to get up to 175,’’ he admitted.
He got involved with Sound Mind Sound Body as a freshman because he knew he’d only get better.
Working on my footwork yesterday in preparation for the Michigan College Showcase at Ferris State this week. Let’s goooo! #properpreparation @SMSBFootball @CoachBlackwell_ @footballcanton @CoachMJSexton pic.twitter.com/AnaI2XZ0CV
— CalebWilliams (@CalebCWilliams5) June 1, 2021
“I realized the top Dogs in Michigan went there,’’ said Williams. “When they reached out to me, I just had to jump at the opportunity. Without a doubt, it has elevated my play. The workouts and the 7 on 7 tournaments; it exposes me to the best players. You don’t get that type of competition where you are (high school). When you are playing the top dogs around the state of Michigan, and when you go to 7 on 7 tournaments in Florida and Tennessee and all those places…You get to see the top-notch competition and it elevates your play.’’
Williams faced one of his SMSB colleagues during the season in Dearborn Fordson senior Antonio Gates Jr., headed to Michigan State.
“He made some plays against us, he’s a great player,’’ Williams. “I just started playing DB last year. Tennessee offered me for DB, so I’m just going to keep doing that. They see me as a corner, but I’m trying to keep my options open and just keep doing both until I have to make a decision. I’m trying to stay versatile. I can play nickel, safety, wherever they need me to play.’’
Williams has been able to take advantage of the academic prep work provided by SMSB.
“They keep up with your grades and make sure you aren’t slacking,’’ said Williams. “They give you SAT practice to get us ready for when we have to take it. They don’t go for less than what you should be. They won’t let you slide with Cs and Ds. They don’t go for that.’’
take advantage of the academic prep work provided by SMSB.
“They keep up with your grades and make sure you aren’t slacking,’’ said Williams. “They give you SAT practice to get us ready for when we have to take it. They don’t go for less than what you should be. They won’t let you slide with Cs and Ds. They don’t go for that.’’
