Kyle Williams is living his dream after the New England Patriots selected the former WSU wide receiver with the 69th overall pick of the NFL Draft. Williams was the fifth player taken in the third round.
The moment. @k_mmoneyyyy pic.twitter.com/NsGmix2qDL
— Washington State Football (@WSUCougarFB) April 26, 2025
In just two season at WSU after transferring from UNLV, Williams had 20 touchdowns and 2,041 yards receiving. Fourteen of those touchdowns came in this most recent season, which saw Williams gut it out in the Holiday Bowl for 172 yards and a touchdown.
Here’s the post-draft analysis courtesy of ESPN:
The Patriots are remaking the wide receiver room to fit returning offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, and Williams’ flexibility to play inside or outside fits with veteran Stefon Diggs, who could see more time in the slot as he ages. Williams is a starting-caliber receiver, especially given the lack of established stars in Foxborough. He shined at the Senior Bowl with his quick feet and deep speed. — Matt Miller
It’s a new era of Patriots football, and Williams has a chance to step in right away. Stefon Diggs is the centerpiece in the team’s wide receivers room, and Williams will battle the rest of the roster for playing time.
Congrats to Kyle Williams, and may he have as much success as the last Coug to hear his name called by New England.
It’s possible Williams isn’t the last Coug to hear his name called. Offensive tackle Esa Pole could be a late-draft pick, as he’s no. 15 on Mel Kiper Jr.’s “Best Available” list of offensive tackles.