Receiver Mike Williams is set to play and is included in the game plan for the matchup against Pittsburgh this week, according to New York Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich, even with the recent addition of Davante Adams.
It seemed that Williams’ inconsistent performances this season might have led to New York’s trade with Las Vegas to bring in Adams. However, Ulbrich mentioned that Williams and all the Jets receivers welcomed Adams warmly.
“You know, the entire receiver room was so receptive to the addition of Davante, which was awesome,” Ulbrich said.
In his eighth season, Williams was brought in this offseason to give quarterback Aaron Rodgers another reliable target alongside Garrett Wilson and Allen Lazard. But Williams, who had 309 receptions and 71 touchdowns during his seven years with the Los Angeles Chargers, has only 10 catches without a touchdown for the Jets (2-4).
During a crucial moment in a 23-20 loss to Buffalo on Monday night, Williams slipped, allowing Bills cornerback Taron Johnson to intercept a pass intended for him.
Rodgers later mentioned that Williams ran the wrong route, and with the arrival of Adams, it seemed like Williams might be traded.
Williams stated on Friday that he joined the Jets to make a difference and will continue to work toward that goal.
“I came here for a reason,” he said. “I’m here, so I’m excited for this weekend. Finish preparation tomorrow and play Sunday night.”
Williams also shared that he and Rodgers discussed the last pass against Buffalo to ensure they are on the same page moving forward.
“We all watch film. We all go through it,” Williams said.Having Adams join the team this week has strengthened the Jets’ passing game, according to Williams, making the receivers elite.
“Excited to learn from (Adams) and everything he’s been through in this league,” Williams said. “Probably been top two, top three (among receivers) in this league for a while.”
Adams had 18 catches for 209 yards and a touchdown with the Raiders this season. He has recorded 100 or more catches in five of his last six seasons, including a career-high 123 in 2021 with Green Bay when he and Rodgers played together.
