Entering the final year of his contract, Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams is looking to have a big season in hopes of garnering a nice-looking extension, whether that be with Los Angeles or somewhere else.
Fortunately, Williams will be playing in a new offense that favors players of his skillset.
Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi is optimistic about Williams because he will be playing the ‘X’ receiver in this offense, which is the same role that was held by one of the league’s best wideouts, Saints’ Michael Thomas.
“As much as this offense will resemble New Orleans, he plays the ‘X’ and the ball has always kind of found the ‘X’ receiver in this offense,” Lombardi said. “I think that there will be some natural production that comes his way because of the nature of the offense.”
While Williams has come up in clutch situations as a big-play threat throughout the years, he hasn’t lived up to his first-round status, failing to surpass 50 catches, has just seven touchdowns over the past two seasons and has dealt with a slew of injuries along the way.
Last year, quarterback Justin Herbert primarily favored Keenan Allen, Hunter Henry, Jalen Guyton, Tyron Johnson and Austin Ekeler. However, 2021 could finally mark Williams’ breakout season since he will be playing in a system that will see receive plenty of targets.
“I see a big role for him. If I were a betting man, I’d bet on nice numbers coming from him on the stat sheet, that’s for sure,” Lombardi said.