Chargers Unlikely to Extend Mike Williams

Fifth-year wideout Mike Williams has been one of the Los Angeles Chargers' most consistent pass-catching options over the last few years. The 26-year-old has played each of his 56 career games in a Chargers uniform, however, it appears as if his future with the team could be up in the air.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported on Saturday that Los Angeles won't be offering Williams an extension this year before his current contract expires. The belief is that the Chargers will think about it in the next offseason and could potentially franchise tag (estimated $19 million for wide receivers in 2022) him depending on his performance in the 2021 NFL season.

Mike Williams Contract Rumors

Williams will enter the upcoming season following a somewhat decent 2020 campaign. He hauled in 48 balls last year for 756 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns. While those numbers are better than what some other wideouts are putting up, it was somewhat of a disappointment considering how Williams had gone for over 1,000 receiving yards in the previous year.

Regardless of how he performs this season, the Chargers absolutely need Williams for the time being. Aside from him and four-time Pro-Bowl WR Keenan Allen, Los Angeles doesn't have any other wideouts who stand out from the rest of the pack. However, the estimated $19 million franchise tag may be too pricy if Williams fails to crack 1,000 receiving yards again.

A bounce-back season for Williams in 2021 would go a long way in helping the Chargers achieve some semblance of success. As it stands, Los Angeles has +3300 odds (15th) to win Super Bowl 56, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

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