Is that T.O.? No, it’s Brandon Williams

By Darrell Laurant  |   Friday, May 11, 2007  |  Comments( 18 )

San Francisco 49ers
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Brandon Williams may not have had wide receiver numbers for the San Francisco 49ers last season -- he didn't catch a pass as a rookie -- but at least he now has a wide receiver number.

And after switching from 17 to 81, the 5-foot-11, 175-pounder out of Wisconsin impressed his coaches during the recent mini-camp, getting more reps with several other receivers (including free agent pickup Ashley Lelie) out with injuries.

According to the 49ers' official Web site, Williams "is an early candidate for most improved player, catching almost everything thrown his way throughout the camp while showing more crisp route running."

"I think he's older and wiser," said receivers coach Jerry Sullivan. "I think he understands the work ethic and how we do things. I think he's learned from Bryan Gilmore and Arnaz Battle. They've been good role models. I think he understands it's all about how you do today and he's getting better. That's what we want them all to do, get better."

Williams also understands that if doesn't get better, he could well be out of a job. With the addition of Lelie, Darrell Jackson (acquired from Seattle on draft day) and Jason Hill (drafted out of Washington State), the 49ers now have a glut of receivers.

Not that Williams spent 2006 warming the bench. He was a credible kickoff and punt returner, amassing over 500 special teams yards. As a receiver, however, he proved unable to use his speed because of poor route running and difficulty fighting his way past bigger defensive backs early in those routes.

"His routes now are like night and day," 49ers player personnel director Scot McCloughan said at the conclusion of mini-camp.

Williams' No. 81 was once worn by Terrell Owens (What? They didn't retire it?) -- and while he's a long way from catching up to Owens in size and strength, he embarked on a ferocious offseason weight program he says has made him "more explosive."

As a Badger, Williams caught 202 passes (a school record) for 2,924 yards. That's exactly 202 receptions and 2,924 more yards than he's gained as a 49er, but no one can accuse Williams of standing pat.

He's got a new number to live up to.

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