What It Means:

Dragon adds that the team is prepared to use the franchise tag on Williams if the two sides are unable to reach an agreement on an extension before the March 8th franchise tag deadline. While Williams' career has had its ups and downs, he was crucial to the team's offensive success in 2021 (especially in the earlier parts of the season).

Williams led the team in receiving yards (1,146) and touchdowns (9) in 2021, but his numbers tailored off towards the end of the season while he dealt with ongoing injuries. However, through the first five weeks of the season his production rivaled even Cooper Kupp's, averaging 6.2 catches for 94.2 yards and 1.2 touchdowns per game. The Chargers are clearly looking to retain his talents for the upcoming season, and hopefully for many more.