Release of Chargers veteran WR could be great news for Patriots

The Los Angeles Chargers released veteran wide receiver Mike Williams on Wednesday, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, a move that could be great news for the New England Patriots.

The Patriots have been chasing free-agent wide receiver Calvin Ridley since the legal tampering period opened Monday. Despite putting forth a "competitive" offer, per CBS Sports insider Jonathan Jones, Ridley signed with the Tennessee Titans on Wednesday.

With Williams fielding offers, New England can pivot from the Ridley sweepstakes and target another high-end NFL receiver. 

Williams has 4,806 yards receiving and 31 touchdowns in his seven-year NFL career. His best season came in 2021, when he had 1,146 yards receiving and nine TD catches.

Williams suffered a torn ACL in Week 3 last season that poses concerns. If healthy, however, he would be a great fit for the Patriots. His ability to make contested catches and in-air adjustments would make the job easier for a rookie starting quarterback, which the Patriots may target with the No. 3 pick in the NFL Draft.