Standing out from a crowd of more than 80 players – for positive reasons – can be a monumental task.
But rookie wide receiver LaQuan Williams fared well in the Ravens' 13-6 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the preseason opener for both teams on Thursday night.
Williams, who played at the University of Maryland, caught three passes for 46 yards, which was just one yard shy of tight end Dennis Pitta's team-leading 47-yard display.
Williams was targeted a team-high six times, and he finished with more yards than higher-profile draftmates Torrey Smith (0 yards) and Tandon Doss (26).Asked if he thought he made an impression with the coaches, Williams said, "I'm praying that I did. I felt like I took advantage of a good opportunity."
Williams was especially adept at turning short catches into significant gains. He said getting yards after the catch is always one of his objectives.
"Yards are important as a receiver, catching the ball and advancing up the field," he said. "That's something that I strive to get."
But Williams said he's not content with his performance. He said there's room for improvement and intends to commit himself to getting better in the days of practice leading up to Friday night's preseason home opener against the Kansas City Chiefs.
"I learned a lot with this being my first time," he said. "So I'm going to piggyback from that, watch myself on film, and see what I can do better."