5 Detroit Lions players who are entering a make-or-break season in 2024

1. WR Jameson Williams

Obvious, but absolutely true. The Lions have opened up an opportunity for Williams to fully emerge in his third season. Without a major injury recovery or other concerns/distractions to hinder his development, like his first two years, there are no more excuses out there. Down the stretch last season, he earned the trust of the coaching staff (i.e. more playing time) and showed deeper signs of a looming breakout over a full season.

To his credit, Williams has embraced the naturally heightened expectations around him and talked about being more mature. He carried a strong run during OTAs right through training camp, looking noticeably stronger and generally more polished. Sheerly as a deep threat, though pigeonholing him as just that could be discounting him, he can literally add something to an already top-notch Lions' offense that no one else can.

There is some history, based on his lack of production over his first two seasons as an early-round wide receiver (regardless of the reasons), that's working against Williams. But that will not matter if he's healthy, focused and productive this year. He can fully shift whatever negative narrative might be lingering out there about him,

As the start of the season beckons, the proverbial rubber is fully meeting the road for Williams. It's hard to put exact numbers on what a breakout season for him would look like, but it's easy to tab what a disappointing campaign would be. There's also a "know it when we see it" element, in terms of impact beyond his raw numbers.

Williams has to get it done this year, or labeling him with a very bad "b" word will start. That's the definition of a make-or-break season, right? The Lions also have a decision to make on his fifth-year option next offseason, which adds a layer to things.