The tight end position is rapidly evolving and although last year’s tight end’s class didn’t make an immediate impact, the one player from this year’s draft class than can make an impact is Minnesota’s Maxx Williams.

Williams played in a run-first scheme in Minnesota which failed to feature his pass catching abilities. The featured player in that offense was running back David Cobb and although people often forget about the run-blocking trait when talking about tight ends, Williams has unbelievable power and he shows excellent ability to seal the edge in the running game.

Williams played just two seasons in college and immediately won the starting tight end job. In his two-year underclassmen career, Williams has caught 61 passes for 986 yards and 12 touchdowns.

At 6-foot-4, 250 pounds, Williams has ideal NFL size. There is room for bulk to be added on, but Williams has a good frame to start out with. Versatility is also a key trait for an NFL tight end and Williams is the type of guy that can play inline, which means next to either tackle, and outside as a flanker or a wideout.

Given his frame and his athleticism, Williams really has a bright future at the next level. The play below just goes to show his athleticism and the amazing things he can do to bring in a football.

Another trait personnel evaluators love when evaluating pass catchers is wiggle. What this trait is relates to how quick players can get in and out of their cuts. Jason Witten has made a living in the NFL getting a step on defenders by using his cutting ability. The play below shows Williams and how he can get steps on defenders by making them jump on routes. The play also shows what Williams can do after he catches the football.

Jerry Kill, the head coach of the Golden Gophers, has said that Williams was a huge reason for the team’s success this past season.

“We appreciate all that Maxx and his family have done for the program,” said Minnesota head coach Jerry Kill. “They are great people and we wish nothing but the best for Maxx as he begins his professional career. Maxx has been an integral part in laying the foundation for our program and has helped move our team forward.”

When Williams decided to stay home and play for the Golden Gophers, they weren’t a perennial power or even a Top 25 football team. However, with his contributions, Minnesota turned out to be one of the most underrated teams in the nation.

Williams is by no means a finished product, but he has the ability to become one of the best tight ends in the league as he has a great blend of size and speed. The NFL is becoming a league where athleticism wins mainly at each position. Knowing how physically-gifted Williams is, he’s going to be a huge contributor for an NFL franchise for the foreseeable future.