The Patriots lost back up tight end Michael Williams with a torn ACL on Wednesday. Williams was competing for the third tight end spot behind Rob Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett.

Williams played in 40% of the team’s offensive snaps last season as a second tight end/ extra tackle. The former offensive tackle is a terrific run blocker and he excels in pass pro as well. Williams was also an integral part of the special teams unit as well. 

Williams is a Bill Belichick type player in that he can do different things. While I’m sure he would have had a tough time beating out the likes of Clay Harbor among others, Williams was reliable and a guy the coaching staff could trust. That’s why losing him is such a big blow.