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New England Patriots AFC East
Trade Details
NEW ENGLAND ADDS VERSATILITY IN WILLIAMS Tuesday, August 25, 2015
The New England Patriots acquired tight end Michael Williams from the Detroit Lions for a seventh-round draft pick in 2017.
What does it give the New England Patriots?
The Patriots tend to covet versatile, super-athletic diamond-in-the-rough types and Williams fits all those categories. He's a former tight end with excellent mobility, so clearly New England is hoping to coach him into becoming a steal. He isn't likely to fill a pressing need right away, but Williams has definite untapped talent.
What does it give the Detroit Lions?
The recent arrival of offensive lineman Joe Madsen in Detroit made Williams expendable, so the Lions get at least something in return for Williams here while opening up a spot for Madsen. Down the road the Lions may regret this one, but Williams still has a long way to go to realize his intriguing potential.
Fantasy Impact
Even if Williams somehow plays his way into a rotational role in 2015, he has little to no fantasy value. While he might conceivably find himself back at tight end, Williams is more of a block-first type than a receiving threat.
Player Focus

to New England Patriots

to Detroit Lions
future 7th-round draft pick