Two years ago, Jameson Williams came to the Detroit Lions as, essentially, a lottery ticket. The 2022 NFL Draft could have seen Williams as, potentially, the first wide receiver off the board if it weren't for his ACL injury suffered during his final game at Alabama.
Fast forward a bit, and Williams has only caught 25 passes in 18 games over the first two years of his career. He's been coming along slowly, but the team has faith that he can break loose in Year 3.
We've already identified Williams as a player who will have all eyes on him during training camp, and if camp is any indication as to what we're going to see over the 2024 campaign for Williams, fans should be very, very excited.
Already, the chemistry between quarterback Jared Goff and Williams looks to be better than it ever has been. And, on Wednesday, the two of them hooked up for a monstrous touchdown that went about 80 yards, in total.
me taking in all the Jamo content pic.twitter.com/eq3S43PwH7
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) July 24, 2024
Make no mistake, Jameson Williams is the Lions' X-factor in 2024
This is a team that allowed Josh Reynolds to leave via free agency and opted not to replace him via the draft or another free agent. Instead, Detroit showed faith in Williams as the next man up, and someone who will not only take over for Reynolds as the WR2, but excel in the role.
After all, Williams was a first rounder for a reason. It's not like he hasn't shown flashes thus far, because he has. Williams' speed is, of course, one of his most admirable and dangerous traits. But, if the Lions can use him in a wider variety, the guy has the potential to do some serious damage alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown.
These deep balls are fun to watch him go get, and take to the house, but Williams should be capable of a lot more. How about quick screens? Slants? Short hitch routes that allow him to turn and work for more yardage after the catch?
If the Lions are going to rely more on Williams, then let's see Ben Johnson and the offense cut him loose. We've seen what he's capable of doing. Now, it's time to unleash Williams at a full-go.