The New York Jets are poised to make significant moves in the wide receiver market during this year’s free agency period, with their sights set on players who haven’t even reached the open market yet.
Alongside exploring talent with expiring contracts, the team is closely monitoring potential cap casualties in the coming days. One such player on their radar is Mike Williams.
The former first-round pick of the Los Angeles Chargers is widely anticipated to be released before the onset of free agency next month. With the Chargers facing cap constraints, releasing Williams would result in substantial savings of $20 million, making it a straightforward decision for the team.
Upon his release, the Jets are expected to pursue Williams. According to SNY’s Connor Hughes, the Jets hold him in high regard and are likely to pursue him once he becomes available.
Drafted seventh overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, Williams has grappled with injuries during his tenure with the Chargers. However, when fit, he has proven to be among the league’s top wide receivers.
Williams perfectly fits the profile of what the Jets are seeking. He brings a combination of size and downfield threat that would complement Garrett Wilson in the Jets’ offensive scheme.
The primary concern surrounding Williams has been his health. Despite recurring back issues and a season-ending ACL tear last year after just three games, he managed to appear in 15 or more games each year between 2018 and 2021, accruing multiple 1,000-yard seasons in the Chargers’ potent passing game.
The wide receiver market for free agency has already started to thin out this offseason, with several prominent names expected to stay put with their current teams. With players like Calvin Ridley and Marquise Brown likely to command sizable contracts, Williams presents an appealing option for the Jets.
Approaching 30 years old in October and with a history of injuries, Williams is unlikely to command the same long-term, high-value contract as some of his peers. Despite the inherent risk, the potential upside makes him an attractive proposition for the Jets.
Expect the New York Jets to aggressively pursue Williams once he hits the open market in free agency, leveraging his skill set to bolster their receiving corps.
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