Nov 8, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers tight end Maxx Williams (88) runs in for a touchdown after making a catch in the second half against the Iowa Hawkeyes at TCF Bank Stadium. The Gophers won 51-14. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
After nabbing their number one wide receiver of the future on day one of the NFL Draft in Breshad Perriman, the Ravens headed into day two with several needs along the roster. And as rounds two and three passed, they continued to work to fill those holes.
For the first time since 2008, the Ravens selected two offensive players with their first and second round picks by grabbing Minnesota tight end Maxx Williams on day two of the 2015 NFL Draft. The selection itself was not truly a surprise, as the Ravens have been heavily linked to Williams throughout the draft process.
Williams is excellent insurance in the event that Dennis Pitta is unable to continue his playing career, and is proof that the team isn’t completely sold on last year’s third round pick, Crockett Gillmore. The Ravens were obviously determined to get their man by trading up ahead of the Steelers to select Williams after they were said to be ready to pick him.
Maxx Williams was a 17 game starter in college who racked up 61 catches for 986 yards (16.2 average) and 13 touchdowns. The 2014 Big Ten Tight End of the Year and second team All-American is a sound blocker with a flex/move profile. Ravens fans will love this comparison, but Williams’ game tape reminds me a lot of Todd Heap.
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With huge hands (10 3/8″), long arms (33 1/2″), a 34 1/2″ vertical, and a 4.78 40 time, Maxx Williams projects as a dynamic passing game threat and competent blocker in the pros. The fact that the Ravens spent a premium pick on the talented Williams is an ominous sign that they don’t have a ton of confidence that Dennis Pitta can return, so you’re very likely looking at the future of the position.
I like Maxx Williams as a player and he should make a nice first year contribution for the Ravens on offense, but I’m also concerned that they still haven’t added a cornerback. Hopefully the Ravens know something that I don’t about the strength of their secondary, but at least they secured a good player at a good price in the second round.
Grade: B-
Next: Grade the Ravens Draft Selections Here
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