Running back DeAngelo Williams, who played his NCAA football with Memphis, was chosen by the Carolina Panthers as the 27th pick overall in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft.

At Memphis State, Williams had 7,573 all-purpose yards, which is a NCAA record. He also notched 34 100-yard rushing games, another collegiate record. He's fourth on the all-time college rushing list with 6,026 yards.

With the Panthers, Williams has served as the second-string running back. In two seasons, he has played in 29 of 32 games, carrying the ball 265 times and gaining a total of 1,218 yards. He's averaged 4.6 yards per carry and scored five touchdowns. He has fumbled once but did not lose the ball. Williams also caught 56 balls for 488 yards and two touchdowns. He averaged 8.7 yards per catch and lost one fumble.

At five-foot-nine and 217 pounds, Williams is compact and undersized. He uses his fine athleticism and quick moves to get past defenders. He is explosive and shifty and has enough speed to run through the hole before it collapses. He uses his shoulders to run over would be tacklers and possesses fine balance and control. He's also a skilled route runner and possesses good hands. There are some concerns regarding his durability due to his size and the punishment that NFL defenders dole out. Williams has proven to be a tough competitor who is driven to succeed.