The Detroit Lions have seen a revitalized Jameson Williams in training camp, as the young wide receiver has stepped up and started to look like a player who can make a big difference in 2024.
In the past, Williams has taken heat for perceived immaturity issues and inconsistencies in his play. However, something appeared to click late last season and he has carried that momentum toward the coming season.
Joining Fox 2 Detroit's Dan Miller at camp this week, Williams revealed a surprising influence on his development.
WATCH - @DanMillerFox2 talks with @Lions wide receiver @bigsgjamo. Williams is becoming a fan favorite as he looks to take another leap forward in year 3. https://t.co/vkzO08UrGp
— FOX 2 Sports (@FOX2Sports) July 30, 2024
"I do want to give a huge shout out to Teddy (Bridgewater). Teddy came in and he got my mind so focused on what I needed to do. I was in the wrong place. Teddy came in and he helped me so much. He told me do this, do that (and showed me) how to do it. He taught me more to the offense. He had been around Dan (Campbell) and these coaches. He just helped me a lot. Off the field, I can't even explain how much he helped me. I think that was maybe the turning point for that. I just want to thank Teddy so much for what he has done for me. He's a real big brother to me, coming in and showing me a lot just in that little period of time before hanging up his cleats."
Bridgewater retired this offseason, choosing to start a high school coaching career over a second year as Jared Goff's backup. But his influence remains, as young quarterback Hendon Hooker spent some time with Bridgewater this offseason.
Ben Johnson praises Jameson Williams' development
Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is very happy with what he has seen from Williams so far.
Ben Johnson on Jameson Williams:
— Colton Pouncy (@colton_pouncy) August 1, 2024
"Things have started to slow down mentally for him. We've locked him into a couple spots and as a result, his route tree has grown, it's developed. And his mind, there's nothing he can't do."
The more trust Johnson has in Williams, the better the Lions' offense will be. It has long seemed that Detroit needed a true No. 1 wideout, and what Johnson is describing from Williams sounds like such a player. The Lions should be able to turn to Williams in plenty of situations for big plays. If he is prepared to give them elite leadership on top of that, it could be a game-changing combination.
Clearly, the Lions have Bridgewater to thank for being able to reach Williams in a way others couldn't.