Kyle Williams DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

New England Patriots wide receiver Kyle Williams has flashed his separation skills at practice this week, according to team writer Evan Lazar. The rookie was a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft out of Washington State and figures to make an impact right away as part of a weak pass-catching group. The 22-year-old enjoyed the best production of his career in 2024, snagging 70 receptions for 1,198 yards and 14 touchdowns. Stefon Diggs (knee) is entering his age-31 season and is coming off an ACL tear, while 2024 draft picks, Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker, failed to show much of anything in their debut campaigns. Williams has a real path toward significant playing time and a healthy target share from quarterback Drake Maye, so his positive practice report is a good sign for his enthusiasts in fantasy football.

New England Patriots rookie wide receiver Kyle Williams was impressive during OTAs, according to Alex Barth of 98.5 The Sports Hub. "Williams made his presence felt during practice, and seemed especially involved running routes outside the numbers," Barth wrote. "His highlight play came on a deep out when he created significant separation and caught a pass from Maye." We can't put a whole lot of stock into just one offseason observation when there's still more than three months until the regular season, but the Patriots should feel optimistic nonetheless. They've been devoid of wide receiver talent for several years, and Williams could fill a major hole for the team (alongside fellow newcomer Stefon Diggs). New England selected Williams with the fifth pick in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, investing significant capital in a player they hope can become a starter during his rookie campaign.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the New England Patriots have signed rookie wide receiver Kyle Williams to an undisclosed contract. The 22-year-old was selected with the fifth pick in the third round of April's draft, and projects to immediately compete for snaps in a Patriots' wide receiver corps that offers little behind veteran Stefon Diggs (knee). While Diggs is reportedly working back quickly from a torn ACL, Williams offers lethal playmaking ability as a deep threat. He gives New England's offense a new dimension as they continue to build around young signal-caller Drake Maye. Despite the Washington State product's more diminutive stature, he spent most of his time out wide during his final season in college. It seems likely he'll move into more of a slot role in the NFL, but it shows his versatility and only stands to benefit him as he adjusts to the pros.