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Kyle Whittingham Praises 'WR1' Zacharyus Williams

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Elijah Grayson Murray | Last updated Apr 11, 2025 5:02 PM ET

Outside of the QB2 battle, Utah's wide receiver room has been front and center in regard to how it will shape up, especially after losing Dorian Singer to the draft due to a failed eligibility appeal, and Zacharyus Williams is taking full advantage of the opportunity.

The now sophomore wideout left a lasting impression on Utah fans and coaches after racking up six catches for 72 yards while also rushing twice for 11 yards in the Utes' final game of the 2024 season against UCF. As a result, that momentum has clearly carried over into spring camp.

With the wide receiver room revamped, Williams has a genuine chance to be Utah's top target for the 2025 campaign. While he has competition with Otto Tia for the spot, head coach Kyle Whittingham has given the former three-star prospect a nod of confidence in the battle.

When asked if there has been any separation in the wide receiver room now that camp is almost over, Whittingham gave the media and fans a glimpse into how the position group is shaping up.

"Zach Williams, if we had to play today, is wide receiver one," Coach Whitt said.

"He's the guy that's making the most plays, getting open, running the best routes, catching the football cleanly, and is really dangerous after the catch. That's one of his main attributes is after the catch, and he's going to make some people miss, and get some of that RAC yardage."

"He's also very good on the jet sweeps, in fact, I'm pretty convinced that if we had to, he could play running back. He's got that natural ability with the ball in his hands," he concluded.

Whittingham's confidence in Williams is very impressive, especially considering that he is one of the least experienced wideouts in the current room. If he continues to grow and mature in his abilities, Utah may not need to go fishing in the portal for a bona fide WR1 after all.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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