Mike Vrabel and his new staff made their priorities clear during the offseason regarding how they wanted to build the Patriots' roster. From leaning defensive heavy in free agency to focusing on the offense and special teams in the draft, they were hitting every corner of the team to ensure they were in a better spot in 2025, which couldn't have come at a better time for Drake Maye.
Not only did the second-year quarterback get help on the offensive line, but his receiving corps massively improved from his rookie season. Stefon Diggs was signed in free agency, while Kyle Williams was a third-round pick in this year's draft, adding even more speed and explosive performance to the offense.
Before the season even began, we knew what kind of player Diggs was, and he's lived up to that and then some so far. Based on the tape, Williams looked like he was an excellent addition, too, but it's just taken a bit longer to see that this season.
He's been more utilized over the past month and has shown glimpses of just how good he can and will be for the Patriots. He's been so impressive that even former quarterback Brian Hoyer recently compared him to a superstar pass catcher that will surely excite fans.
Brian Hoyer just gave the best new comp of Kyle Williams that the Patriots will love to hear
After an incredible touchdown catch against the Ravens on Sunday Night Football last week, Williams had a lot of people talking about his potential in the league and with the Patriots.
That led Hoyer to heap high praise his way, and he also stated that he sees shades of a young Diggs in his game, especially since he's able to work with and learn from the veteran himself.
“When I watch Kyle Williams, I see a young Stef Diggs. The release. The routes. They’re learning from this guy.
— Michael Rodnick (@MJRodnick) December 22, 2025
He’s been so good for this team, this WR room.
🎥: @NBCSBoston | @bhoyer7 pic.twitter.com/dqmMKKG9vT
Imagine if the Patriots have two Diggs-like players, one of course actually being Diggs.
That's more than they could have asked for when they decided to select Williams in the third round of this past draft, and it's certainly impressive considering he hasn't been a significant part of their offensive game plan just yet.
But if he really does have traits that are similar to those of Diggs, then there's nobody better he could be learning from to start his NFL career, not only as a productive player, but also as a leader.
Now we just need to see more of that on a consistent basis, and a lot of that will be up to Josh McDaniels and his game planning.