There is no doubting that Notre Dame needs to get better, and in order to improve the team’s wide receiving corps’ performance and play, a new look group will be required. Five players were cut from Notre Dame’s depth chart for 2023, but fortunately for the Irish coaching staff, some very talented newcomers were welcomed, including standout freshman Cam Williams. Williams had been committed to Notre Dame for over a year before he signed his letter of intent in December. The Glen Ellyn, Illinois native was recruited by former Irish offensive coordinator Tommy Rees and receivers coach Chansi Stuckey, but Marcus Freeman’s new position coach Mike Brown, who was named wide receivers coach in December, is familiar with him. Williams, who started school early, had earlier.
“I had known Coach Brown before (Freeman) hired him,” Williams remarked regarding his relationship with Brown. We had a relationship while he was at Cincinnati and briefly at Wisconsin, so it wasn’t too difficult for us to get along. I was also at ease because I knew how great of a guy and coach he was from our past interactions. I sort of let Micah (Gilbert) and Logan (Saldate) know that we’re in good hands, along with the other guys in the class. We’re all thrilled about it, therefore.
Williams thinks that Brown will aid in his growth both on and off the pitch. Williams said, “He understands not just the game but us as players and people.” “I know people say that about a lot of coaches, but (he) really is here for us and wants to see us succeed. He’s a player’s coach 100% of the time. There’s much more involved with him than just what occurs on the pitch.
Williams brings to Notre Dame exceptional physical attributes. Despite committing to the Irish as a sophomore, the 6-2, 191-pound receiver showed better physical attributes during his final two years of high school. His route running has improved, and his strength, agility, and fluidity on the pitch have all increased. Now that he is a college receiver, he is aware that he has more to offer.
“I know details are important here, but obviously, there were things in high school that I got away with,” Williams said. “I can run a route well; I just need to put in more effort. It’s simple to just run as fast as you can in a straight line and catch the ball. I believe I’ve already been practicing and improving my route running and footwork, though. I am confident that I will be able to reach my desired status as a route runner.”
