Projected to be one of the top senior wide receiver prospects for the 2016 draft class, Auburn’s D’haquille “Duke” Williams is in the news this week, but for the wrong reasons.
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“Obviously, there’s going to be some catching up to do”, Malzahn said.
“I’ll tell you when he gets back,” Malzahn said on Tuesday, continuing to deflect questions regarding Williams and his status. “He understands that”.
Williams finished the 2014 season with 45 catches for 730 yards and five touchdowns during 10 games. Tigers coach Gus Malzahn made the announcement following Thursday’s practice.
Williams has yet to report for camp, missing every practice since last Friday. “He is in the process of every day earning his coaches’ and his teammates’ respect”.
“He had a discipline issue that we’re taking care of and when he takes care of that, he’ll be back on the field”, Malzahn said last week.
“It will do nothing but help our atmosphere, which is already off the charts”, Malzahn said.
Malzahn was evasive when asked if Williams was under any kind of zero tolerance polity going forward in regardless to his behavior.
This is not Williams’ first bout with discipline issues. He missed several practices leading up to the Outback Bowl last season and was suspended for the game for a violation of “team rules”. He considered turning pro, but opted to come back for his senior season.
AL.com’s Brandon Marcello provides more updates on Williams from Malzahn’s Thursday meeting with reporters. “That’s how we operate around here”, Malzahn said.
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The junior college transfer is rated as a potential high NFL draft pick after returning for his senior season. “For anybody that missed that many practices that’s to be expected”.
