Patriots Rookie Kyle Williams Reacts To Head-Turning NFL Comparison

The Patriots drafted a wide receiver in the third round of this year’s draft and gained praise from one legendary wideout.

Kyle Williams was an interesting pick for New England. There were other interesting options on the table, but his skill set could match Drake Maye, and he can be a dangerous weapon in Josh McDaniels’ offense.

Williams received notable praise from Steve Smith Sr. before and after the 2025 NFL Draft. The former All-Pro wide receiver compared Williams to himself, and the Patriots rookie reacted to the lofty comparison.

“It means a lot, honestly. Somebody I watched when I was a kid, but for me, I still have to accomplish a lot of things just for me to accept that comparison,” Williams told reporters Friday, per a team-provided video. “Me and him, we chop it up here and there. LA guys, just having that resemabalance of a home state and everything, that’s just good on our connection.”

When asked if Williams has a similar attitude and physicality to his game that Smith showed in his career, the 22-year-old responded, “You’ll find out soon.”

Williams added that he hopes to be elite and try to make the field however he can. It seems like the coaching staff already enjoys his game when McDaniels and Mike Vrabel were seen working hands-on with the Washington State product during the first day of rookie minicamp.

Fans will have to wait until the end of the month for a chance to see Maye throw passes to Williams to get a taste of what that partnership could look like.