Maxx Williams
Minnesota, TE
Height: 6.4
Weight: 250
Age: 21
Check out all of The War Room content
Athleticism: B
Possesses good athleticism for a tight end and showed the ability to play a variety of positions despite sporting the frame an in-line Y tight end. Played from out of the backfield, on the line, in the slot, as a move tight end, and occasionally on the perimeter at Minnesota. Has good straight line speed and acceleration for a tight end, but hips are tight and lacks ideal agility.
Catching: A
Excellent ability as a receiver and was grossly underutilized in the passing game with the Golden Gophers. Has strong hands and can pluck the ball outside of his frame and can make the one-handed grab. Can lay out, contort his body, and make catches while in the air. Serious threat in the back of the end zone with his size, strength, and body control. Shows excellent focus and doesn’t lose concentration when defenders are bearing down on him over the middle.
Routes: C
Has room for development as a route runner, but hips are a limiting factor in his development. Rounds out his routes and can tip his movements in his routes. Strong getting out of his stance and isn’t stymied by physical linebackers in coverage. Has the ability to stretch the seam, but isn’t a true vertical threat that can take the top off of a defense (few tight ends are). More experience, coaching, and involvement in a more pass-oriented offense will help improve this area.
After Catch: A
Extremely dangerous ability after the catch and is far more athletic with the ball in his hands than would be expected. Capable of hurdling defenders along the sideline, pulling off two of them in succession against Missouri in 2014. Very strong and tough to bring down after the catch and can drag defenders for the first down.
Blocking: C
Has the frame to develop into an above average in-line blocker with more coaching, training, and experience. Has effort that can’t be taught and will block through the echo of the whistle, flashing a tenacious blocking demeanor. Has the strength to cover up defenders, but won’t consistently gain movement and can be disengaged laterally. Lacks ideal mirror ability and can get caught without someone to block out in space. Needs better awareness and technique, as he can duck his head on contact, will let his pads rise, and can end up on the ground too often. Deficiencies can be improved with coaching.
Red Flags: Experience
Bottom Line: The rare redshirt sophomore tight end who declares early (the first since James Casey in 2009), Maxx Williams is an extremely talented pass catcher who is still burgeoning into the player he can become down the road. Young for a prospect, Williams has the ability to become a top three tight end by the end of his rookie contract if he develops as expected. Williams is scheme-versatile and could become the rare two-dimensional tight end in today’s game.
Comparison: Rob Gronkowski
Grade: 9.1 (1st Round)
Thank you for reading. Follow me on Twitter – @LWOS_Sibo. Support LWOS by following us on Twitter – @LastWordOnSport and @LWOSworld – and “liking” our Facebook page.
Have you tuned into Last Word On Sports Radio? LWOS is pleased to bring you 24/7 sports radio to your PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone. What are you waiting for?
Main Photo:
