For as well as the Patriots’ offense is functioning this season, the unit has received little production out of rookie wide receiver Kyle Williams.
That could potentially change this week if Kayshon Boutte misses Sunday’s game against the Buccaneers with a hamstring injury.
Williams has two catches for 20 yards on six targets this season. He’s been on the field for 122 snaps (21%).
“I think Kyle’s doing a lot of really good things, and he’s a young player who’s come in and he’s — some of the guys that have been in front of him have really done a nice job,” offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels said. “So, I think that’s part of the role of a young player who’s trying to progress is you wait your turn, you get your opportunities, and then, hopefully, you make some plays and you continue to earn more. So, he practices hard every day. He’s out there every day, which is an important part for a young player to develop. He knows what to do. He’s played multiple spots. He knows how to function in multiple spots. We’ll see if there’s more opportunities out here as we go forward.”
If Boutte does miss Sunday’s game, the Patriots could elect to start slot receiver DeMario Douglas in his place instead. That would give Stefon Diggs and Mack Hollins more snaps outside.
Douglas has emerged as a downfield threat in recent weeks. He’s coming off of his first career 100-yard performance.
Douglas now has 18 catches for 262 yards and three touchdowns on the season. Diggs leads the team with 45 catches for 508 yards with two touchdowns. Hollins has 20 catches for 217 yards with two scores.