Baltimore Ravens rookie tight end Maxx Williams is expected to take an "understudy" role to Crockett Gillmore in 2015, according to beat reporter Jamison Hensley.
Maxx Williams a probable ‘understudy’ in rookie season, lacks immediate fantasy value
Rookie tight end Maxx Williams drew rave reviews during draft season, but his contributions at the NFL level will likely be scarce at first. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Though Hensley remains optimistic about Williams’ future, he mentions that recent history indicates that the learning curve is a steep one for tight ends who must learn to run routes as well as receivers and block as well as offensive linemen in the NFL. That transition comes slowly with so much to perfect.
Fantasy Spin: Williams has been a late-round flier in many leagues this season due to Breshad Perriman's health and a dearth of options behind Steve Smith in the receiving game. However, expectations must be tempered as only three rookie tight ends in the past 10 seasons have caught more than 50 passes and only four had over 500 yards.
Hensley noted that given the context, a solid season for Williams would be 40 catches and 400 yards. That would be anything but solid from a fantasy perspective, making Williams more of a valuable add in keeper leagues and dynasty formats. He’s a likely bench stash in his first season.
