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Chad Williams (6-1, 204) has all of the physical trait to succeed in the NFL. His size compliments his speed and strength, running a 4.43 40 time and had 21 bench reps at his pro day. When the Arizona Cardinals selected him with the 98th overall pick, the name was unknown to many but the pick did not come as a complete surprise.
Steve Keim is at his best when drafting players in the third round. Tyrann Mathieu, John Brown, and David Johnson have already made their marks on the Arizona Cardinals and are becoming the cornerstones of the team. Brandon Williams played well towards the end of the 2016 season and might end up being the starter opposite Patrick Peterson this upcoming season. Kareem Martin is the only exception.
Now Williams is making a name for himself at OTAs and the Cardinals future Hall of Famer is taking notice.
“He’s extremely explosive,” Fitzgerald said of Chad Williams. “He reminds me of Anquan Boldin in terms of the strength of his hands. Once [the football] touches his hands, it doesn’t move. Unbelievable strong hands.”
That is very high praise for the rookie wide receiver. Boldin was never the fastest receiver but he was known for his strength, competitive nature, and high football IQ. Fitzgerald said Williams has strong hands but also has high football IQ. Their size are similar too so maybe the comparison is not so far-fetched.
Could Chad Williams be the next third round gem?
Expectations are high for the rookie and they should be. With Fitzgerald’s guidance and Williams comprehension of the playbook, the rookie from Grambling State could end up being the Cardinals future number one wide receiver.
“When he’s running with guys, you see him like ‘he’s moving, he’s really moving getting behind guys on the defense,’” Fitzgerald said. “So he’s making his plays, getting acclimated to a couple of different positions. He’s going to be a great help for us. I love his confidence. He’s really an outgoing young man. Has a high football IQ, which always helps.”