The journey of every NFL player is different; sometimes they break out as rookies and shine from day one, while some flourish once they have had a few years in the league.
Since the day LaQuan Williams was brought in, things have been very unclear when it comes to what kind of player the receiver is. Williams was acquired as an undrafted free-agent in 2011, the same year the team drafted fellow-Maryland product Torrey Smith.
In college, he actually red-shirted as a defensive back, but made the transition to wide receiver in 2007. The 6’1” Williams wasn’t highly coveted enough to get drafted, but the team took a chance on him.
He made the squad by impressing coaches in training camp and earning a spot on a rather weak receiver corps. This season Williams will look to make the squad like he has in the past two years, but he will try to finally get a regular spot on the gridiron and bypass the heavy competition he will be facing.
We have talked a lot about the depth of the team, but it comes a bit thin at wide-out when we have to refer to Tandon Doss as the possible #3 receiver. It is possible for Williams to earn that spot, but does he really have enough talent to do so?
Williams has been stored down deep on the depth chart for two years even when the Ravens were having a few problems. He didn’t have a catch or even a target in 2012, and was basically non-existent. Is it possible that he could get jumped by a couple of other young guys?
So far, he has done as much as you would expect an undrafted free agent to do—play special teams and make few catches. Tandon Doss, Tommy Streeter, and Deonte Thompson will all give Williams a run for his money, and I’m not so sure that #15 has enough power to bypass all of these guys.
Doss, “Flacco’s Favorite,” has had work and experience and is ready to take on a bigger role now that Anquan Boldin is gone, so barring an incredible camp, Williams won’t beat out Doss.
The coaching staff has made it known that they are very excited about Thompson, and from what I have seen in college and a couple pre-season snaps, Tommy Streeter is the real candidate to be the breakout 2013 receiver. He is quicker than quick and his huge frame will bode well for his success.
It’s no secret that many are skeptical about what Williams can really do, so the upcoming OTA’s and camps will be big. If the former undrafted Maryland star can have a big impact, he’ll save his future. If not, it may be time to start questioning whether Williams really deserves a roster spot.
