Report: Chargers focused on keeping Williams, could use franchise tag

The Los Angeles Chargers are determined to retain wide receiver Mike Williams and are poised to franchise tag him if they can't agree on a long-term deal by Tuesday's tag deadline, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano report.

The franchise tag's projected worth for wide receivers in 2022 is $19.1 million, according to Over The Cap.

Williams has developed into a key vertical threat for quarterback Justin Herbert. He enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2021, setting new career highs in receptions (76) and receiving yards (1,146) while also adding nine touchdowns.

The Chargers drafted the former Clemson wideout with the seventh overall pick in 2017. Williams has eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards in two of his last three seasons.