As always, Alabama is set to lose some key defensive players to the NFL Draft. However, it won’t have to worry about one of them leaving.

Junior pass-rushing linebacker Tim Williams won’t be entering the draft early, according to WDGM, a radio station in Tuscaloosa.

The 6-foot-4, 230-pounder has 9.5 sacks this season, tied for 3rd-most among all linebackers in the FBS and by far the most of any player at his position in the SEC. The next-closest linebacker is Mississippi State’s Richie Brown with 5.5.

Williams has stepped up big in the last two games with two sacks apiece in the Iron Bowl against Auburn and in the SEC title game against Florida.

“I love playing college football,” Williams told WDGM. “I feel like the moments I’ve had here with my brothers, I feel like I have to cherish that while I’m here. If I have another year, I’m going to take full advantage of that year.”

About a week ago, coach Nick Saban made it clear during a press conference that he’d like to see Williams become an every-down player next season in order to boost his draft stock.