The New England Patriots announced that second-year wide receiver Kyle Williams would be changing his jersey number from No. 18 to No. 8.
The team officially announced the change on social media Friday afternoon.
Williams is coming off a rookie season that saw him record 10 catches for 198 yards and three touchdowns. He showed off his big-play ability in the process. Each of his touchdowns were 30-plus yards in length. The Patriots are hopeful that he can emerge as a more consistent contributor for the team in 2026.
He should have plenty of motivation wearing the same jersey number worn by the Patriots’ former leading receiver from 2025, Stefon Diggs.
#Patriots WR Kyle Williams is switching from the No. 18 to the No. 8 for his sophomore year! đĽ
The number was last worn by Stefon Diggs.
(đ¸ @Patriots) pic.twitter.com/A4qTwx7TAN
â Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) May 1, 2026
Another solid season from Williams would certainly elevate the Patriots’ wide receiver room even further. He brings an explosive element at wideout that the team desperately needs. There’s serious potential for him to emerge as the Patriots’ best home run deep threat option at receiver.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots giving Stefon Diggs jersey number to promising young receiver