The Cincinnati Bengals created an interesting question in the wake of the NFL draft after ignoring positions like wideout, running back and tight end.
One of those big questions focused on special teams returns — but the answer might already be on the roster.
Special teams coordinator Darrin Simmons recently spotlighted Pooka Williams as a name to watch at that spot, per Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com: “Pooka is somebody that is going to be an intriguing guy to see how his development has gone from year one to year two.”
Williams, an undrafted free agent last year, made noise in training camp because coaches saw big upside in him making the transition from running back to wide receiver.
Now it sounds like he could make a serious push on punt and kick returns, pushing Trent Taylor at the former and Chris Evans at the latter (safety Brandon Wilson is coming back from injury and the team just drafted two defensive backs in the opening two rounds).
Pooka will still need to shine often in all facets, as climbing and staying on the depth chart will require versatility that guys like Stanley Morgan and Mike Thomas bring. But it’s wide open for him to ascend this summer and play a key role.
