When it comes to slot receivers who can stretch the field, the Patriots have certainly epitomized an embarrassment of riches at that position over the years. It all started with Troy Brown, who was Tom Brady's go-to guy early in his career, and trickled down to the likes of Julian Edelman, the last Patriots' wideout to enjoy a 1,000-yard season.
Could Kyle Williams, whom the Patriots drafted in the third round with their 69th pick, fit that mold? Given the comparisons he's received so far, most notably to Steve Smith and Tyler Lockett, New England fans should be excited.
According to Sports Illustrated, a lot of talk around the league post-draft has centered on how the Patriots found an absolute gem in the Washington State product, with one comparison given to Albert Breer mirroring Williams' game to that of Lockett's.
The Patriots might have hit the jackpot by drafting Kyle Williams in the third round
Lockett has been extremely productive over his career, with more than 8,500 receiving yards and 61 touchdowns to his credit. Williams has also drawn rave reviews from the great Smith, who said on his YouTube channel recently that, he sees a lot of similar traits in Williams' game.
Lockett and Smith have been two of the best inside receivers of this era, and both guys showed uncanny ability to stretch the field. Between Williams and DeMario Douglas, the Patriots now feature two fast inside receivers who can use that aforementioned speed to cause problems for opposing secondaries.
Honestly, the Patriots haven't had that luxury in quite some time since Brady departed for Tampa Bay after the 2019 season.
If the Patriots can get a guy in Williams who draws comparisons to a pair of receivers who have had great success in this league, Drake Maye, Mike Vrabel, and Josh McDaniels will undoubtedly be happy campers. Pundits certainly believe the Patriots hit a home run with their selection of Williams, and now he just has to buck the trend of recent New England wideouts who have been draft busts.