Mike Williams

Daniel Popper of the Athletic reports that Chargers offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi is excited about Mike Williams' skill set and will be featured as the team's X receiver.

Fantasy Impact

Williams has consistently been inconsistent over his first three seasons in the league. Fantasy managers have experienced him scoring 10 touchdowns on just 43 catches as a sophomore. In his third year, he broke the 1,000-yard barrier on only 49 catches. The former Tiger is a big play waiting to happen, evidenced by his career 16.7 yard per reception average. Unfortunately, former Chargers quarterback, Philip Rivers didn't have the arm strength to take those big play shots down the field consistently and Williams has been unable to stay healthy. However, with the big-arm of the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, Justin Herbert, the four-year pro finally has a quarterback who can take advantage of his "go up and get it" skill set. With Hunter Henry leaving in free agency, there is even less target competition in Los Angeles, increasing the likelihood the former top-10 draft pick will get more opportunity then he's seen thus far in his career. He's never had as much incentive to have a productive season as he does in 2021. With the Chargers declining to pick-up his fifth year option, he'll become a free agent at season's end. A great season could lead to a big, new contract. Currently ranked as the WR50, Williams has a great chance to solidly outplay his ADP and provide significant value to his drafters. He has WR3 upside in what should be an explosive offense.

OC Joe Lombardi said that he expects WR Mike Williams to put up nice numbers this season.

Fantasy Impact

Williams hasn't produced like an elite prospect that he was drafted to be. His sophomore season he caught 10 touchdowns, and then in his third season he finally broke the 1,000 yard mark. He will now try to produce his best season of his career with Justin Herbert as his QB. Hunter Henry is gone, so that will open up some more targets for Williams, but he has some competition with Keenan Allen and Austin Ekeler. Williams is a big-play waiting to happen, but if he can find more consistency, he could be a nice WR3 for fantasy managers.

Chargers WR Mike Williams went off in his season finale for six receptions with 108 yards and a score in the Chargers' 38-21 win over the Chiefs in Week 17.

Fantasy Impact

Williams caught a 48-yard beauty from Justin Herbert down the sideline for his first touchdown in five games. He played well to end his season but was otherwise a major disappointment. His fourth-season ends with 48 receptions for 756 yards and five touchdowns in 15 games played.

Chargers WR Mike Williams caught four passes for 54 scoreless yards in the Chargers' 19-16 win over the Denver Broncos.

Fantasy Impact

Williams saw a team-high 10 targets, with his longest catch going for 25 yards. Williams' fantasy season should be considered a disappointment when compared to last season as his receiving yards plummeted from 1,001 to 648 in 14 games played. His lack of production will cause him to fall to a late-round selection in fantasy drafts next season since he is one of the most inconsistent receivers in the NFL.

Chargers' WR Mike Williams (back) is officially active and will play in Thursday's Week 15 contest against the Raiders. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Williams will be on a "rep count."

Fantasy Impact

Williams tested out his back during pre-game warmups and is all systems go for Thursday Night Football. This is a bit of surprise as it was reported that Williams was unlikely to play. Despite the great matchup, Williams is a risky WR3 and fantasy managers should consider other wide receiver streaming options for Week 15.