Press Pass: 49ers Coordinator Greg Roman Discusses Kyle Williams Role and Ability

With this season underway, some are surprised that we're seeing less of Randy Moss and Mario Manningham and more of Kyle Williams. Williams has been one of the more featured players on this 49ers offense, even though he is yet to make a catch in 2012.

He's been in the majority of three-WR sets the 49ers have used in Weeks 1 and 2. As an athlete, most know what a weapon Williams can be, so it makes sense that he's seeing field time. His role is indicative of his strong offseason and self-driven mentality to rebound this year.

On Thursday, offensive coordinator Greg Roman spoke to the media, touching of the offense and this weekend's game versus the Minnesota Vikings. Roman was asked about Williams and had some interesting, to-the-point insight on the 49ers receiver.

For more on Roman's comments on the speedy pass-catcher, continue after the jump.

What makes WR Kyle Williams a good fit for you guys in the slot?

Kyle's a really shifty receiver, has got great quickness, change of direction, really good short area player, has got good hands. I think Kyle continues to improve as a route runner. He's got the quickness you look for inside. He can get separation from a defender in tight quarters. I'd say that pretty much sums it up. A lot of times in the slot you're going to end up running routes on a defender and it's either the first read or you've got to get open in a short area. He excels in that area.

Is that the role you envision him maintaining throughout?

Yeah, I think as he continues to improve. There's a lot of competition at the receiver position. The receivers, I think, are playing pretty darn well and we look forward to diversify what we're doing with them and expand on everybody's role, practice as well.

I think Kyle Williams is continuing to develop into a very solid receiver. He is yet to back it up with the numbers, but the potential is there, and I feel he is constantly learning, on the verge of breaking out. I really like Williams and agree whole-heartedly with Roman's assessment of him.

It would not surprise me to see him develop into a Steve Smith/Victor Cruz-esque receiver. Kyle Williams "the veteran" is a player I am excited to see. He's got the hands and big-play ability to be a threat, and he should have the opportunity to showcase his skills in 2012.

As the season progresses, and the players find their groove and the coaches open up the playbook, I would expect Williams to get more involved.

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