Amidst the blockbuster developments that happened yesterday, the Los Angeles Chargers made a move that barely created a ripple.
Chargers and WR Mike Williams reached agreement on a three-year, $60 million deal that includes $40 million guaranteed and $28 million in year one, source tells ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 8, 2022
ESPN’s NFL insider Adam Schefter tweeted, “Chargers and WR Mike Williams reached agreement on a three-year, $60 million deal that includes $40 million guaranteed and $28 million in year one, source tells ESPN.”
The Chargers made Williams the seventh overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft and signed him to a four-year, $19.7 million rookie contract.
The team also exercised their fifth-year option on him worth $15.68 million.
However, there’s no doubt that the former Clemson standout exceeded the value of his deal based on his performance.
In his third season with the Chargers, Williams had 49 receptions for 1,001 yards and two touchdowns.
The year before, he had ten touchdowns from just 43 receptions.
However, Williams had a breakout year last season, finishing with 76 catches for 1,146 yards and nine scores.
He averaged 15.1 yards per catch in 2021 and 52 of his receptions were for first downs.
The 27-year-old wide receiver had four 100-yard games last season.
His best game among that lot was his 165-yard, two-touchdown performance in Week 5 against the Cleveland Browns.
Justin Herbert Will Have His Main Target Back
Keeping Williams for three more seasons will give former Offensive Rookie of the Year Justin Herbert a big guy target that can continuously advance their offense.
As Williams becomes their top option during critical situations like third downs, Keenan Allen can burn defensive backs with his speed.
Jalen Guyton is also a nifty slot receiver while tight end Jared Cook can also complete critical receptions.
Having these weapons around should help Herbert complete another solid season.
However, they are hoping to enter the AFC postseason picture this time.
