Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
When have you ever heard a football player wanting to play on special teams? Well, that is just what rookie Nick Williams is aiming for with the Washington Redskins.
To be honest, when looking at Williams’ college career, it is not all surprising that he is aiming for a special teams spot. Listed as a wide receiver, Williams has not received a touchdown since 2011. That is 18 games without a touchdown — so why did Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan decide to bring Williams to training camp?
In college, Williams was foremost a special teams player, being one of the best punt returners the University of Connecticut has ever seen. At 28.3 yards-per-return, Williams holds the record for best punt return yard average in Husky history. He is tied for the most returns for touchdowns by any Husky at two, and is second in overall return yardage at 1,556 yards.
Williams did all this while still playing at a limited basis as a wide receiver.
So, if Williams gets a roster spot for the Redskins, will he be limited to only special teams? Probably not, and he knows it. He must first prove himself at the return position, then earn the right to become a wide receiver.
Williams was signed as an undrafted college free agent in 2013. The season is on the way and we will have to wait and see what he will be capable of. Many have questioned Shanahan’s choices in the past but one thing for sure: special teams can make or break any game.
Thomas is a Sports Writer writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @tmford88, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google
