Jameson Williams highlighted on appropriate list of fantasy football draft targets

Whatever vernacular is appropriate, the Detroit Lions have cleared the runway, opened the door, etc. for Jameson Williams to have a breakout season this year. Good reviews of his work during OTAs from head coach Dan Campbell and quarterback Jared Goff have kept the positive vibe going as training camp looms.

From a fantasy football perspective, it's easy to be a little skeptical about Williams heading into the season. He's something like fifth in the pecking order for targets/touches in the Lions' offense. His downfield speed is not a great match for what Goff does most as a passer.

The fantasy format Williams is most appealing to draft in stands out, rooted in likely weekly ups and downs. Overall the downside attached to him is reduced, or practically eliminated, by an ADP that currently sits at WR49 (0.5-point PPR, via Fantasy Pros).

Jameson Williams makes totally appropriate "All-Fantasy" Team

ESPN analyst Matt Bowen offered up an "All-Upside" Team for fantasy in 2024 (subscription required) earlier this week. Here's what he wrote about Williams.

"If you are looking for a later-round wide receiver with breakout potential, keep an eye on Williams. He enters the season slated to play the No. 2 role for the Lions opposite Amon-Ra St. Brown, and we know he has the electric playmaking traits to produce."

"In 12 games last season, Williams averaged 14.8 YPC, with 20.8% of his receptions going for 20 or more yards. In addition to his vertical stretch ability to win down the field, Williams is an elusive, rapid accelerator after the catch. He will need to see his target volume climb (42 targets in 2023), and the availability concerns are real, as he has missed 16 games over his first two pro seasons. But in the Lions' schemed pass game, Williams will be put in a position to see the ball at the intermediate and deep levels of the field. Take the upside here with Williams' ADP sitting at WR49."

Williams' route tree showed signs of expanding late last season, and that should continue. He had six or more targets in two of his last three regular season games last year too, so the target volume trend was promising.

The week-to-week ride with Williams in fantasy this year seems sure to be very unpredictable. But his upside is undeniable, which Bowen only reinforced.