Mike Williams's Preseason Player Analysis

Bottom Line

Williams’ boom-or-bust projection remains in play.

Part of that stems from his return from a torn ACL. Of course, Aaron Rodgers’ recovery from an Achilles tear is another huge component.

Given the variables, it’s likely we see a slow start for the former Charger. But from mid-season on, he may pop as the red zone threat New York desperately needs.

We’ll track his rehab closely this summer. For now, Williams is a fine bench stash.

What We Learned Last Year

• Williams tallied 19 catches, 249 yards, and 1 TD in less than 3 full games.
  • He saw 26 targets over that stretch – right on par with Keenan Allen.
• In Week 3, the 29-year-old sustained a left ACL tear.
  • He underwent surgery on October 25.
  • This came after Williams missed time in 2022 with a pair of ankle injuries.
• Williams played at least 15 games from 2018-2021.

What to Expect in 2024

• HC Robert Saleh said this offseason that he's "very confident" Williams will be ready for Week 1.
  • Williams was eased into training camp – hardly ideal as he looks to gain the trust of Aaron Rodgers. He came off the PUP list on Aug. 7.
• When healthy, Williams will have a shot to emerge as the No. 2 option behind target hog Garrett Wilson.
  • The Jets don’t have another notable WR of his size. Williams brings ball-winner ability both inside and outside the red zone.
  • Wilson, despite his clear talent, enters 2024 with a TD rate of just 3.9%.
  • The Jets used a Round 3 pick on Malachi Corley, a run-after-catch specialist whose skill set complements Williams’.
• Williams’ outlook is directly tied to the health of Rodgers, who’s coming off a Week 1 Achilles tear. He’s on track to be 100% for the opener.
• The 2023 Jets, despite QB issues, ranked 5th in pass rate; 13th in pass rate over expected. Look for their pass-centric ways to remain following the return of Rodgers and OC Nathaniel Hackett.