Playing vast receiver within the NFL is a special problem than it was in faculty — one thing the New England Patriots know effectively as they consider their choices this offseason.
While the group is anticipated to look outdoors the constructing for pass-catching assist this offseason, there’s additionally perception that enhancements on the place may come from inside development.
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(*2*) head coach Mike Vrabel mentioned Wednesday on the NFL Combine.
“And so I’m excited to see where guys like Kyle Williams go from year one to year two, and just his development and his growth mentally and physically.”
Joining a crowded depth chart filled with veterans, it was a quiet rookie season for Williams. The receiver performed simply 31 p.c of the group’s offensive snaps and completed the common season with simply 10 receptions.
He made them depend, nevertheless, averaging over 20 yards per receptions and scoring three touchdowns — throughout 30 yards. That large play skill has left the arrow pointing up entering his sophomore season.
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“I just know I’m excited about seeing where he goes from Year 1 to Year 2,” Vrabel mentioned. “Made some fantastic plays. Ability to adjust down the field on the deep ball. Has got really good release skills. We saw what the crossing route was against Tampa Bay and the ability to create an X-play that was maybe a 10- or 12-yard pass.
“I’m not going to sit there and say ‘these guys are going to be a No. 1 receiver or edge rusher.’ We’re just excited that he’s with us and what he showed us. His attitude was fantastic. We’ll have to help him get to reach his potential.”
Following the season, Williams acknowledged the necessity to enhance his play energy along with working on the highest of his routes.
Those enhancements may assist the 23-year-old attain that potential, the place he may turn into a extra constant big-play risk and a trusted weapon for quarterback Drake Maye because the Patriots look to maintain bettering their offense.
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“He was available, and the way we used him was this more of a speed player, which he definitely has, but I think he’s got more in him that he could show,” Executive vice chairman of participant personnel Eliot Wolf mentioned. “He’s got to get stronger. I think he’d be the first one to tell you that. But, the fact that he was able to play in all 21 games for us was a testament to his ability to be available.”