Patriots' Third Round Pick Could Be X-Factor in Offense's Success

Williams had a phenomenal senior season with the Cougars, catching 70 passes for 1198 yards and 14 touchdowns. But the number that stands out for the Patriots is his 17.1 yards per catch.

The Patriots ranked second-to-last in the NFL in explosive plays in 2024, and Williams is the perfect gadget to help improve that category in 2025.

The Athletic's Chad Graff predicts Williams could be Patriots receiver that takes New England's offense to the next level with his deep threat ability.

Josh McDaniels' offense is normally one that gives rookies struggles because of its complexity. However, the Patriots have many receiving options across the short and middle areas of the field, and the addition of a speedster like Williams would keep defenses honest.

Williams ran a 4.40-second 40 at the combine and had a success rate of 58 percent on throws of 20 or more yards last year with Washington State.

The Patriots have their top guy in Diggs, their reliable tight end in Hunter Henry, and their slot receiver in Douglas to help Maye in his second season, but the rookie could be the difference maker that takes the top off of the defense.

He already showed the ability once in minicamp, catching a deep touchdown pass from Maye. That could be a foreshadowing sight for Patriots fans in 2025.