After two days in pads, Sunday's practice was a very light one for the Detroit Lions--a "glorified walkthrough" according to one reporter. But with the notable news that right tackle Penei Sewell is in concussion protocol, came the return to practice of wide receiver Jameson Williams.
Williams had missed four days, two without pads and the aforementioned two with pads, with a leg injury. Sunday's light session was probably ideal for him to get a little ramp up, before the pads go back on for the team Monday,
At this point last year, Williams was of course not able to practice as he recovered from a torn ACL. His rookie season wound up being the expected injury recovery-forced mulligan/tease, with one catch and one carry that each went for at least 40 yards over the six games he played.
Williams is also going to be suspended for the first six games this season after violating the NFL's gambling policy. He won't be able to practice for the first three weeks of that punishment, so training camp practice has even a little extra importance. And any missed time right now is obviously not ideal.
Dan Campbell reflects the obvious importance of camp practice for Jameson Williams
Campbell talked about the mental reps Williams has been getting while he's not been able to practice fully, and those reps should not be discounted. But, via SI.com, the Lions head coach reinforced the importance of Williams being able to be out there for full, padded practice.
"So yeah, he's a young player and hasn't played, "We do need him out there and the clock's ticking every day. That's why I said he'd be out there today. I think we're pretty close to getting him back." "Dan Campbell
It seems like Williams will not be cleared for full practice on Monday, at least. But like Campbell pointed to, the clock is ticking and every day missed (or at less than full capacity) is a missed development opportunity for the second-year receiver who's practically a rookie.