USC’s Leonard Williams says he hasn’t determined NFL plans

Defensive lineman Leonard Williams said this week that he hasn’t decided whether to make himself available for the NFL draft or return to USC for his final season of eligibility.

But the 6-foot-5, 300-pound junior said it is constantly on his mind.

“I’m thinking about it all the time, more and more,” said Williams, who is projected as a first-round pick, with some mock drafts listing him as a top-five selection.

Williams said he has met with Coach Steve Sarkisian, who told Williams he wanted to be a “resource” for him.

“He said ultimately that the decision is mine and we talked about how he could help me through the process,” Williams said.

Williams said that his “USC family” would factor in the decision, and so would the Trojans’ record against UCLA.

UCLA has defeated USC in each of Williams’ three seasons.

“It would be hard to leave these guys,” he said. “And never being able to beat UCLA and just being able to come back and fight for a national championship and Pac-12 championship.”

Williams has made 8 1/2 tackles for losses this season, including six sacks. He also has intercepted a pass and forced three fumbles.

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