Originally published Feb. 8, 2007 in the Omaha World-Herald
Yancy says: "I'm a silent assassin. I've got a high-energy motor. I'm never going to quit on a play. I'm relentless."
Did you know?
His brother, Quincy, a 6-7, 270-pound defensive end, spent time with the Detroit Lions after a college career at hometown Arizona State that ended in 2000.
Coachspeak
"He's got the potential to be huge, just like his brother. William will be 6-7 by the time it's over with. And he's got an armspan that's even bigger than that." -- Ironwood coach Larry Allen
The gurus say
Four-star prospect and the No. 4 player in Arizona, as rated by rivals.com. Honorable mention all-state by the Arizona Republic.
About Yancy
Made 80 tackles and 10 sacks while fighting through constant double teams as a senior at Ironwood. At his size, Yancy is just beginning to scratch the surface of his potential, according to Allen. He dabbled at wide receiver and tight end last fall but settled back into a role that featured him solely on defense. "He's got one of the best first steps I've seen in a long time," the Ironwood coach said. "Combine that with his size and versatility, and you're looking at a monster in a few years."
Our take
Yancy is the kind of recruiting gamble that most any college coach will take. Another likely redshirt candidate who needs to add weight, his upside is high after a year or two in the NU program.