The Los Angeles Chargers didn’t quite get the production they were expecting from wide receiver Mike Williams, their No. 7 overall pick last year. Williams unfortunately suffered a back injury in the offseason which kept him out until Week 6. In the 10 games he played, he had just 11 catches for 95 yards and no touchdowns.
However, the Chargers appear to have a big and important role in store for Williams in his sophomore season, one that could lead to a lot more touchdowns.
“I’ve got a big role in the red zone right now,” Williams said, via Dan Graziano of ESPN.com. “Henry was a big red zone threat, and that’s a spot where I can help. So we’re working on a lot of that stuff right now.”
It certainly makes sense for the Chargers to utilize Williams as a red-zone weapon given his imposing 6-4 frame. LA will need someone with that type of size near the end zone this year with tight end Hunter Henry out for the season and veteran Antonio Gates also gone. The two tight ends combined to catch seven of Philip Rivers’ 28 touchdown passes last season, and the team will have to find someone to replace that production.
Williams will be competing with the likes of Tyrell Williams and Travis Benjamin for playing time alongside undisputed No. 1 wideout Keenan Allen. While he might not be quite ready to step up into that role as an every-down wide receiver, being a capable red-zone threat could be a good way for him to contribute to the team in a meaningful way.
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