Maxx Williams was the Ravens’ second round draft choice this year and will be the second rookie pass catcher, along with receiver Breshad Perriman, to get a look at a starting role in the Baltimore offense. Williams had limited production in college, but he played on a run first team in Minnesota, with a shaky talent group, and he exhibited playmaking skills with 50 yard receptions in each of his two years as a starter. He finished with 13 touchdowns in college, including eight last year, and the Ravens are hoping he can bring that kind of red zone scoring to their offense.
Fantasy Upside
The Ravens got a combined 76 catches, 800 yards, and five touchdowns from the tight end position last year, and that was with a guy with hip issues, an aging veteran who has since moved on, and a pair of young guys. If Williams can step in and become the main focal point at the position for the Ravens, as his talent suggests, he could be in line for a similar stat line sooner rather than later, and become a viable fantasy option in leagues with a separate tight end position.
Fantasy Downside
Rookie tight ends often struggle to make an impact, and Williams will still be vying for snaps with second year player Crockett Gilmore, a versatile player who showed flashes last year in a limited role. Williams will have an uphill battle trying to become a consistent fantasy option early in his development.
Bottom Line
Williams has too many unknowns to count on him if you’re looking for an every week starter at the tight end position, and most owners don’t carry two tight ends on the roster, making it difficult to suggest drafting him in most leagues. However, he’s a name to keep an eye on, and is a great option as a developing player in dynasty leagues. He has some upside this year too, due to the lack of elite receiving targets in Baltimore, which might give him more of an opportunity to make an early impact.
