The Arizona Cardinals Make Chad Williams a Starter

As people may already know, GM Steve Keim has had the most success finding talent in the third round of the NFL Draft.

The list of players include Tyrann Mathieu (2013), John Brown (2014), and David Johnson (2015).

Now, another one of Keim’s former third-round picks has an opportunity at adding himself to this list.

With their 53-man roster finalized, the Arizona Cardinals have listed their 2017 third-round pick Chad Williams as their No. 2 starting wide receiver opposite Larry Fitzgerald.

The 23-year old receiver took big steps in getting back to football shape, after having a forgettable rookie season composed of only 64 scrimmage yards.

Williams have shown considerable improvement as a route runner and a pass catcher. He flashed at times during the Cardinals preseason match-up with the Saints, making three catches for 44 yards.

Although he lacks extensive NFL experience, he does have the size, speed, and strength that teams want in a prototypical starting wide receiver.

Head Coach Steve Wilks has made it clear after the practice on Monday that “experience is good when it’s proven, when guys continue to progress and perform.”

Williams has progressed and performed but will have to continue to do so to entrench himself as the starter for the entire 2018 season.

Veterans Brice Butler and Greg Little were unable to do that, which is why they were shown the door.

Now that Williams will be in the starting lineup, he will have the opportunity to prove to the Cardinals’ organization that he is the answer at the wide receiver position now and for the long-term future.