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Jason Williams and his mom, Karen Williams. Williams, who ended his career as the nation's all-division leader in forced fumbles, has been touted as one of the highest-rated linebackers in Division I this spring and could be drafted at any time Sunday. Some publications have him being selected as high as the third round.
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NFL Draft Party

April 24, 2009

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MACOMB, IL -- Fans are invited to join Western Illinois University linebacker and likely National Football League (NFL) draft selection Jason Williams at Chick's on the Square in downtown Macomb Sunday, April 26 to watch the 2009 NFL Draft.

The restaurant will open at 9 a.m. Sunday to host the draft party. Also in attendance will be Leatherneck football players, coaches and members of the athletics department.

Williams, who ended his career as the nation's all-division leader in forced fumbles, has been touted as one of the highest-rated linebackers in Division I this spring and could be drafted at any time Sunday. Some publications have him being selected as high as the third round.

"There is not much mystery to the fact that Jason will be drafted this weekend," said Leatherneck head coach Don Patterson. "The only question is when and by whom."

The 2009 NFL draft consists of seven rounds. Rounds one and two will begin Saturday, April 25 at 3 p.m.

"At this point I'm more anxious than nervous because I want to find out where the next chapter of my life will take me," Williams said. "Once the draft happens everything picks right back up. The following weekend is rookie mini-camp and after that it's graduation.

"Everybody knows that the draft doesn't guarantee you a spot," he added. "You still have to make it coming out of camp."

Western Illinois running back Herb Donaldson, who graduated in January, is also a potential Sunday draft pick. He will be watching the draft from his home in St. Louis.

Follow Williams' path to the NFL on his Twitter page at twitter.com/jwill6.

Copy by Western Illinois Athletics Media Services

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing