Jets WR Mike Williams commences a new chapter with a new number
New chapter, new player, new man … new number?
Mike Williams recently (and seemingly) revealed his uniform number with his new team, the New York Jets, per his official Instagram account (via IG Stories).
As seen from the above image, it appears Mike Williams will wear No. 18 for the New York Jets. If his individual locker header doesn’t convince fans, we’re not quite sure what would get it done.
And yes, customizing each locker header with a player’s name, number, college and home state is one of the unique things the Jets offer their players. Naturally, this routinely generates locker room talk about each player’s college days and home-state blood.
Williams, 29, signed a one-year, $10 million deal with the Jets this offseason ($8.3 million guaranteed). The former Los Angeles Chargers weapon is poised to become Aaron Rodgers‘s No. 2 target behind Garrett Wilson.
Compiling 4,806 and 31 touchdowns on 309 receptions in seven seasons with the Bolts, Williams’s prototype is perfect in this Jets offense.
Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 218 pounds, the Clemson product’s frame complements the shifty Garrett Wilson tremendously. Plus, Rodgers undoubtedly needed a possession and red-zone target who could both high-point/attack the ball and work sideline magic.
That’s exactly what Williams brings to the table.
Previously, Williams sported No. 81—during his time with the Chargers. Each of those seven seasons occurred in Los Angeles, as the Bolts tabbed Williams as their first-ever draft pick in 2017 after their move from San Diego to L.A (No. 7 overall).
One wonders if Williams preferred No. 81. Currently, sophomore tight end Zack Kuntz dons those digits. Yet, Williams wore neither 81 nor 18 in college, as he rolled with No. 7 during his collegiate glory days.
Lastly, Williams accompanied his big reveal with the “I love you” sign language emoji. Perhaps No. 18 is a loving nod and/or tribute for somebody he holds near and dear to his heart. Or maybe he’s just throwing some much-needed love to his new fanbase.
Either way, although it’s not official, expect Mike Williams to wear No. 18 when New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers finds him on critical third downs.
The previous Jets player to wear No. 18 was Randall Cobb, who did so in the 2023 season. Other Jets to have worn No. 18 are Ray Lucas, Demaryius Thomas, Deontay Burnett, Al Woodall, and the unforgettable ArDarius Stewart.
