2014 NFL Draft: Andre Williams takes up juggling to improve as receiver

Former Boston College Eagles running back Andre Williams had a season for the ages as he ran for 2,177 yards en route to a fourth place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting, but it’s zero receptions he had last season that has NFL teams concerned.

In today’s NFL where running backs are asked to do so much more than simply rush the football, receiving is as important as it ever has been for backs and Williams had a lot to improve to complement his rushing ability.

So what did Williams to do improve his hands?

He took up juggling.

According to NFL.com’s Chase Goodbread, “He enlisted the help of sports psychologist Bill Thierfelder, who worked with him on his approach and focus. He picked up juggling at the behest of a scout. Then, he spent three days at Boston College before pro day working on his pass-catching. Specifically, he focused on seven routes he knew he’d be asked to run.”

After dropping two of eight passes in drills at the combine, Williams showed improvement with his technique, relying on his hands more than his body, and had just one drop at Boston College’s pro day.

His rushing ability is as good as as any  back in the draft this year and with him growing more comfortable as a receiver, he just may hear his name called much earlier than once believed.