The Los Angeles Rams signed Duke Williams in what could be an under the radar addition.
Duke Williams had his share of highlights during his time at Auburn, but his career also features some off-field issues. Auburn was forced to dismiss him from the team due to his inability to stay out of trouble. His off-field problems were the cause of his lack of interest by teams in the draft.
However, going the undrafted free-agent route does have its positives. It allowed Williams to seek out the best opportunity. The Los Angeles Rams have limited talent at the wide receiver position with Tavon Austin, Kenny Britt and Brian Quick at the top of the depth chart.
Austin is the team’s top playmaker on the outside, but he is a slot guy who works all over the field. Williams wins with his size and ability to attack the deep part of the field. Both Britt and Quick have inconsistent careers which gives them a weak hold on their roster spots.
There might not be a better opportunity in the league for Williams to make a quick rise up the depth chart.
However, it’s important to note that Williams is far from a finished product. The offense ran at Auburn doesn’t give its receivers the opportunity to run many pro-style routes. This means Williams is raw as a route-runner.
He’ll need some time to develop and gain a better feel for the position. However, he is a big-play threat that could be utilized in at some point during his rookie season.
For the Rams, this is a win-win situation as it will only cost them a little bit of money to give a high upside player a chance. If Williams fails to develop or has another off-field issue they can quickly cut him.