In an article where Bleacher Report went through each team’s best-kept secret going into 2021, wide receiver Preston Williams was the selection from this Dolphins roster.
The Dolphins finished last season 10-6, narrowly missing out on the playoffs.
So what can we expect from Williams in 2021?
The Story So Far
Williams was an undrafted free agent in 2019, despite recording 1,345 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns during his final year in college with Colorado State after transferring from Tennessee. He has proved to be a great pickup.
His time on South Beach has been marred by injuries, playing 16 games across two seasons.
As Bleacher Report discusses, Williams has been excellent when healthy, with 50 catches, 716 yards, seven touchdowns, and a 93.5 passer rating when targeted.
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Can Williams Prove His Worth In 2021?
A problem arises for Williams in 2021. Last season, he was the WR2 but since the season concluded, there have been plenty of changes.
Miami has added wideout talent during the offseason, acquiring Will Fuller in Free Agency, Jaylen Waddle in the draft, and welcoming back 2020 opt-out Albert Wilson.
Despite 4 touchdowns in 8 games in 2020, how often will Williams be used by head coach Brian Flores going forward?
Provided they are healthy, it is hard to see receivers DeVante Parker, Will Fuller, and Jaylen Waddle not starting. Issues staying healthy for many of the Dolphins’ receivers can allow Williams to earn a start. Otherwise, Williams is likely to have a sporadic role in the team during the 2021 season.
Williams has shown he can be a key player for the Dolphins in the short spells we have seen. He appeared to have a great connection with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa before the injury ended his season.
Back in the 2019 training camp, cornerback Xavien Howard said that “Preston Williams is going to be a number one receiver. He seems the best”.
He has shown at times his good hands and his ability to catch in tight spaces. Williams’ speed could see him be the most effective in the slot.
With opposition defenses likely to focus their game preparation on the aforementioned Parker, Waddle, and Fuller along with tight end Mike Gesicki, this can allow Williams to break free and get open in space.
A team with depth can go far in the postseason. I am not for one second suggesting that the Dolphins can go all the way to the AFC Championship, but the goal this season has to be reaching the playoffs.
With the risk of injury that often occurs in the NFL and the addition of a 17th game in 2021, having the option of Williams in what is now a stacked wide receiver room, can give the Dolphins that roster depth in the position that has lacked in recent years.
Staying healthy is his main priority, with Williams needing to make the most of any opportunity that comes his way.
