The New York Jets have activated Mike Williams from the physically unable to perform list this week, allowing the wide receiver to join individual drills for the first time this season.
Coach Robert Saleh reported that Williams, who is recovering from a torn ACL, is progressing faster than expected. However, the team plans to keep him out of team drills for the next few weeks.
“The good news is he’s ahead of where we thought he would be,” Saleh said on Thursday via SNY. “He was out participating in individual drills and route-running early on, so that will be his focus for now. He’ll be involved in walkthroughs, individual drills, and routes on air.”
Williams, who sustained a season-ending ACL tear in Week 3 last season, was released by the Los Angeles Chargers this offseason after declining a pay cut, before joining the Jets.
“It’s been great,” Williams said about returning to practice. “I’ve been working on the side for a while, so it felt good to join the group for individual drills. Putting on the shoulder pads and running with the team felt really good.”
Activating Williams ahead of schedule boosts his chances of being ready for Week 1. Although he won’t be participating in team drills just yet, he will have the opportunity to build chemistry with quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Williams was acquired as a crucial addition to an offense looking to recover from a disappointing previous season.
“I’m excited,” Williams added. “I believe I can contribute explosively to the passing game, help with outside blocking for the running backs, and help put points on the board.”
