Savion Williams has drawn mixed reviews since the Green Bay Packers surprisingly selected him in the third round, but he left no doubt on the opening day of training camp.
Williams couldn’t have made a more impressive start to the summer, looking every bit the future star the Packers hope he can become in Matt LaFleur’s offense.
“No videos allowed but Savion Williams just made one hell of a leaping one-handed catch,” reported Bill Huber of Sports Illustrated during Wednesday’s practice.
Various reporters in attendance placed a spotlight not only on this spectacular play, but also on the overall impression Williams made in the first practice of the summer. It’s the Packers’ first real glimpse at what Williams can do, as he was only recently cleared from a shoulder injury that limited him throughout the offseason program.
Savion Williams only needed one practice to show his potential in Packers offense
It’s one practice. The pads aren’t on yet. It’s the time of year filled with overreactions and bold predictions, but it’s perfectly OK to get excited about a third-round pick with huge potential.
In reality, it will likely take Williams time. He lacked consistency throughout his college career, making highlight-reel plays along with several frustrating mistakes. Per Pro Football Focus, Williams dropped eight passes last season.
But the Packers didn’t draft him for his college performances. They believe in the player he can become.
Plays like his one-handed catch on Wednesday remind us of exactly that. Williams enters the league with arguably as much upside as any wide receiver in this year’s draft class, including Golden. It will take work on the practice field and development from his coaches, but Williams can become a do-it-all player who can unlock a new level to LaFleur’s offense.
Making plays through the air? Check. Williams showed that on Wednesday. But he offers so much more, having rushed for 322 yards and six touchdowns last season.
Whether it’s by lining up in the backfield, in the slot, or even making game-changing plays as a returner, Williams can do a bit of everything.
It only took one day of training camp for the rookie to show his potential as a pass-catcher.
