SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Former Wyomissing star J’ven Williams remains optimistic and patient as he continues trying to crack the starting lineup in Penn State’s offensive line.
“This season has been really good for me,” Williams said at the Fiesta Bowl Media Day. “It’s been a learning opportunity. There’s been a whole bunch of learning.”
The 6-5, 310-pound Williams was the highest-rated prospect in the Nittany Lions’ 2023 recruiting class. He learned last year from starting tackles Olu Fashanu and Caedan Wallace, who are both in the NFL.
Since spring practice this year, he’s received repetitions at both tackle and both guard positions. Offensive line coach Phil Trautwein called that versatility huge for Williams.
“He has to understand he has to keep attacking every single day,” Trautwein said. “He understands everybody’s journey is different. Drew Shelton started as a freshman (at left tackle). Olu didn’t start until his third year when he dominated and could have left (for the NFL).
“I’m happy that happened here so J’ven could see. I’m trying to make sure he’s focused on being better at practice every single day.”
Williams has played in every game this season for Penn State (12-2), which takes on Boise State (12-1) in a College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Fiesta Bowl Tuesday night at 7:30 (TV-ESPN).
“I’ve started on special teams this year and I think I’ve done a really good job protecting the kicker,” he said. “This year I’ve been able to play a little bit at guard and a little bit at tackle. I feel like I’m a little more versatile and I’m able to plug in at more spots.
“(But) it’s all about getting more snaps on offense.”
The Lions might return four starters on the offensive line next season because right guard Sal Wormley is the only one whose eligibility will expire. Williams might wind up replacing him.
“The main thing I’ve seen from ‘Bam’ is his willingness to learn and ask questions,” Wormley said. “He’s way more engaged with me and other older O-linemen than he was as a freshman. He’s always asking how to get better.
“When I come back and visit, I want to see Bam out there on the field doing his thing. He’s a great player. He’s a great guy. He’s a great human being. I really want him to achieve all of his goals.”
Two other Penn State players from Berks County were not at Media Day but are with the team in Arizona, according to a team spokesman.
Former Exeter standout Joey Schlaffer also is in his second season with the Lions. He’s played at tight end in three games but he does not yet have a catch. He’s behind Tyler Warren, Khalil Dinkins and freshman Luke Reynolds on the depth chart.
“The big thing for Joey is his blocking in the run game and continuing to grow and put weight on,” tight ends coach Ty Howle said. “He’s done a nice job of working at it. It’s a process. He has the right attitude.”
Wyomissing product Caleb Brewer, an offensive lineman, was part of the 2024 recruiting class. The 6-4, 288-pound Brewer has not played and is being redshirted.
“He’s just a kid who was a little bit behind with his technique and fundamentals,” Trautwein said. “He’s working hard every day. He’s doing everything we ask him to do. He’s gaining weight. He’s getting bigger and stronger in the weight room.”
Source: Berkshire mont