JANUARY 2: Williams formally announced today that he’ll enter the draft, tweets Joe Christensen of the Star Tribune.
DECEMBER 27: The tight end depth in next year’s draft just got a bit deeper, as Darren Wolfson of 1500ESPN.com reports that Minnesota sophomore Maxx Williams is expected to enter the NFL draft. Wolfson notes that an official announcement is expected sometime following the Golden Gophers’ Citrus Bowl contest against Missouri.
Williams has already spent the three required years in college, where he’s caught 54 passes for 888 yards and 12 touchdowns. His 2014 season earned him a collection of accolades, including a second team All-American selection, the Big Ten tight end of the Year award, and first-team All-Big Ten honors. He was also a finalist for the Mackey Award, which goes to the nation’s top tight end.
According to Wolfson, Williams’ family is already seeking an agent with the belief that he’ll be a first or second-round selection. While Wolfson notes that his career numbers are not eye-popping, the player’s 6-foot-4, 250 pound frame will make him an instant contributor in the NFL. His father, Brian Williams, spent ten years in the NFL as the Giants center.