The New York Jets secured an exciting addition through free agency with wide receiver Mike Williams, but fans might have to exercise patience as he provided an update on his injury status during a recent press conference.
Speaking to the New York media, Williams mentioned that he is approximately four and a half months into his recovery from a torn ACL suffered last season. He emphasized his commitment to daily progress and staying focused on improvement. While he didn’t give a definitive update on his availability for training camp, Williams expressed confidence in being ready for Week 1 of the upcoming NFL season.
The injury occurred during Week 3 of the previous season against the Minnesota Vikings. Despite the setback, Williams had started the year strongly, recording 19 receptions for 249 yards and a touchdown, including an impressive 121 receiving yards in the victory against Minnesota.
Fortunately, it appears Williams will be prepared for the 2024 season, much to the relief of Jets fans. The team secured him with a one-year, $15 million contract, adding another weapon for Aaron Rodgers in the upcoming season. This contract also provides Williams with an opportunity to showcase his skills for a potential long-term deal beyond 2024.
Drafted seventh overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, Williams has had a mix of successes and challenges during his seven seasons in the league, accumulating 4,806 yards and 31 touchdowns but struggling with consistency.
Despite not having received All-Pro or Pro Bowl honors, Williams, at 29 years old and standing 6’4″ and 218 pounds, possesses the physical attributes to be a significant asset for the Jets, especially with Garrett Wilson likely drawing considerable defensive attention.
In addition to Williams, the Jets bolstered their lineup with other veteran signings, including former Dallas Cowboys All-Pro left tackle Tyron Smith on a one-year deal. This approach allows both Williams and Smith to demonstrate their value to the Jets in 2024 while affording the team financial flexibility in the future.
The Jets also made moves to strengthen their quarterback position, signing a team-friendly one-year deal with Taylor as a backup option to provide stability in case Rodgers is sidelined.
Further offseason acquisitions, such as Javon Kinlaw and Solomon Thomas on the defensive line, signal the Jets’ intentions to contend for the AFC East title and possibly make a Super Bowl run in 2024.