Kyle Williams wasn’t drafted in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. In fact, Williams saw many receivers come off the board before the New England Patriots selected him in the third round. While there’s a legit reason why some of those receivers are receiving more buzz, Williams isn’t someone we should ignore.
In last year’s draft, the Patriots made a big investment in their offensive future. New England drafted their franchise quarterback, Drake Maye, in the first round of the draft. It was an up-and-down season for Maye, but the potential was clearly evident.
Not only did Maye have to deal with adjusting to life in the NFL, as a starting quarterback nonetheless, but he also had to work through a few injuries. In the midst of that, Maye completed 225 passes for 2,276 yards and 15 touchdowns while throwing 10 interceptions. Maye also adds a strong element of success to his game with his ability on the ground.
Last year, Maye ran for 421 yards and two touchdowns and which helps the flow of the offense. When you factor in the Patriots drafting running back Tre’Veyon Henderson in the second round, we’re beginning to see some upside in New England’s offense. It also doesn’t hurt that Josh McDaniels is back as offensive coordinator.
The success of the run game, Rhamondre Stevenson is still in play as well, will only serve to open things up from a passing perspective. That will also be the case down the field. And this brings us right to Williams. In 2025, it was a less-than-ideal situation from a receiving perspective for Maye in his rookie season. What the Patriots really were missing was a veteran receiver. It goes further than simply the need for experience. Maye and the New England offense needed a dependable receiver that could serve as a safety valve, be a dynamic threat, and take over the game. Essentially, someone who defenses truly need to be aware of what can change a game. By signing Stefon Diggs, to what is essentially a one-year deal, given the lack of guaranteed money, the Patriots accomplished just that.
All of the above sets the stage perfectly for Williams. While he is a rookie, Williams is polished in the sense that he’s coming off a five-year collegiate career. The fact that Williams began his NCAA career at age 17 helps from that perspective. Perhaps more importantly, Williams had success each season. From a development standpoint, we also saw consistent improvements.
In 2023, Williams caught 61 passes for 843 yards and six touchdowns. He followed that up by catching 70 passes for 1,198 in 2024. Williams showed his big-play chops and nose for the end zone as he finished with 14 touchdowns.
Williams is a clear deep threat, and his 4.40 40-yard dash time certainly highlights that. Heading into 2025, Williams will have a clear role with the Patriots. Maye has the arm to get the ball down the field as Williams is in a position to succeed.
With an ADP of 182, there are a lot worse ways to close out your drafts. At least, Williams should have a few big weeks with some clear upside.
