Rochester linebacker Williams named DIII Football Defensive Player of the Year
Charlotte, NC - Rochester (MN) sophomore linebacker Martell Williams has been named the 2023 NJCAA Division III Football Defensive Player of the Year!
Williams put together one of the most impressive seasons for a pass rusher in NJCAA Division III Football history, collecting a nation leading 105 tackles on the season. Williams was no stranger to the backfield, earning nine sacks and 24.5 tackles for loss on the season (most in the nation). Williams also forced four fumbles, which tied for the most in the nation.
In the national championship game, Williams finished with 7 total tackles and two tackles for loss. Earlier this week, Williams was named to the 2023 NJCAA Division III First-Team All-America Team. In October, Williams was named 2023 NJCAA Division III Football Defensive Player of the Week following a 12-tackle performance.
Personal
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Position: Linebacker
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Number: #2
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Class: Sophomore
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Hometown: Proviso, Illinois
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Hight School: Proviso West High School
2023 Statistics
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105.0 total tackles (led nation)
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56 solo tackles (led nation)
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49 assists (led nation)
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9.5 tackles per game (led nation)
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9 sacks
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24.5 tackles for loss
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4 Forced Fumbles (Tied for nation lead)
