Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams could be on the move this offseason.
According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, some people in league circles believe the Lions might consider trading the former first-round pick. The buzz comes just days before teams decide whether to exercise the fifth-year option on players selected in the 2022 NFL Draft.
For Williams, that option would lock in a fully guaranteed $15.493 million salary for the 2026 season — a significant investment for a player who has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to deliver WR1-level production consistently.
Still, Williams is coming off the best season of his young career, recording 54 receptions for 1,001 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024. His big-play ability and vertical speed made him an effective deep threat in Detroit’s high-octane offense, especially alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown and tight end Sam LaPorta.
So why would Detroit consider moving on?
The decision could be partially financial. With looming decisions on the horizon for other rising stars due for long-term deals, the Lions may opt to shed future cap commitments. Williams’ fifth-year option is guaranteed for injury, which means Detroit would be on the hook if he were hurt before the option year begins.
There’s also a matter of scheme and depth. Detroit has built one of the NFL’s deepest receiver rooms and could feel confident in other options, especially if they plan to add more weapons through the 2025 NFL Draft.
Williams would likely draw interest from several receiver-needy teams looking to add speed and upside without paying free-agent premiums if made available. His growth in 2024 showcased the dynamic potential that made him a top-15 pick out of Alabama in 2022.
Williams remains a Lion for now, but it’s a situation worth watching as the fifth-year deadline looms.
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