NFL free agency 2019: 7 breakout players set to cash in
By Ian Wharton
3. Tyrell Williams, WR, Los Angeles Chargers
The 2019 wide receiver free-agent class has a number of solid options slated to hit the market. The most intriguing one who could absolutely blossom in a new environment is Los Angeles Chargers receiver Tyrell Williams. The soon-to-be 27-year-old may not have statistically broken out this year, but he proved his worth in a smaller workload in consecutive years.
Many will point to his impressive 2016 season, where he accumulated a career-best in catches, yards, and touchdowns. Since then, the Chargers have reloaded and had two years of healthy Keenan Allen to steal targets. But Williams’ efficiency has steadily improved, making it likely he can re-establish quality numbers with greater volume.
His catch percentages have risen from 58 percent in 2016, to 62.3 percent in ’17, up to 63.1 percent in ’18. His yards per-catch remains at an impactful 16.3 yards for his career. Prospective teams are getting a player capable of chunk gains with his 6’4″, 205-pound frame and smooth route-running ability.
Because of his value both on the perimeter and the slot, Williams is perfect as a second receiver outside of Los Angeles. His deal should rival Tyler Locket’s $10.6 million per-year contract.
Potential suitors: Indianapolis Colts, Green Bay Packers, Buffalo Bills, Oakland Raiders, Arizona Cardinals, New England Patriots