Jim Harbaugh knew how to make a lasting first impression, for better or for worse!

One player that lived through the transition from Brady Hoke to Jim Harbaugh in Ann Arbor is A.J. Williams. During his time with the Wolverines, Williams was a tight end that wrapped up his college career during the 2015 season.

During a recent Zoom interview with Saturday Tradition’s Adam Biggers, Williams had the opportunity to discuss his first time meeting Harbaugh. He admitted Harbaugh is one of a kind before explaining how Harbaugh informed Williams he could stand to cut some weight:

“I remember meeting Jim the first time,” said Williams. “The first time we’re at practice, and we’re like ‘What’s this, he’s down in a stance?’ My first actual encounter…I was the tight end, 280, point of attack. I kid you not, he walks up to me, he grabs this love handle right here, and he goes ‘I think you need to lose a little more weight.’

“I’m thinking I’ve got it figured out (as a senior), and Jim just comes over and crushes my ego with a grab of a love handle.”

To his credit, Williams admitted that Harbaugh had a valid point about improving his speed at the position, something that paid off with a career-high 12 catches for 129 yards as a senior. But rest assured, that delivery is one that will be remembered for some time.

You can check out the entire interview with Williams with all his comments and insight about playing under Harbaugh here.