The Minnesota Golden Gophers will have to replace the program’s most talented player for the second straight season.
Once Ra’Shede Hageman graduated a year ago, tight end Maxx Williams became the focal point of opponents’ game plans. Williams didn’t disappoint either.
Even with two years of eligibility remaining, the redshirt sophomore will reportedly enter the 2015 NFL draft, according to Darren Wolfson of 1500 ESPN in Twin Cities.
“Sources also indicate that they realize the 2015 Draft is not strong for tight ends,” Wolfson wrote. “The expectation is that Williams can go as high as the late first or second round. He did submit his name to the NFL Draft Advisory Board, and the belief is the feedback they will continue to provide will cement his decision.”
The tight end finished first on the team with 29 receptions for 471 yards and seven touchdowns. When the Golden Gophers required a big play in the passing game, the pass was almost always intended for Williams.
As a result, Williams was a finalist for the Mackey Award as the nation’s best tight end.
With Williams and senior running back David Cobb both headed to the NFL, Jerry Kill’s staff will be forced to replace over 47 percent of the team’s offense next season.
But there still is one more game to go this year. Williams will be on display Jan. 1 during the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl against the No. 16 Missouri Tigers.
