Jameson Williams has generated 573 receiving yards on passes with play action this season, the 2nd-most in the NFL and just 4 yards shy of Ladd McConkey’s league-leading 577 yards.

Gets fifth-year option

The Lions picked up Williams' fifth-year option Friday, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

Analysis: As expected, Williams is now under contract through 2026, with a projected $15.49 million salary for the fifth and final season of his rookie deal. The Lions may be hesitant to discuss an extension after Williams' breakout third season in 2024, considering his first two NFL campaigns largely were defined by injuries and suspensions. He cleared 1,000 receiving yards on just 91 targets in 15 regular-season games last year, adding 11 carries for 61 yards and a TD, plus two touches for 80 yards and…read more

Should get fifth-year option

The Lions likely will exercise their fifth-year option on Williams this spring, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis: The Lions have until May 1 to exercise an option that would guarantee Williams a salary around $15.49 million for 2026. That's well below market rate for a quality No. 2 receiver -- something Williams became in 2024 with a 58-1,001-7 line on 91 targets in 15 regular-season games. While unlikely to average more than 6-to-7 targets per game in an offense loaded with other talented playmakers, Williams should have a similar role this upcoming season under new play caller John Morton, who…read more

Mixed bag versus Washington

Williams caught one of four targets for 19 yards, while also adding a 61-yard rushing touchdown and thrown an interception on his only pass attempt in Saturday's 45-31 NFC divisional-round playoff loss to the Commanders.

Analysis: Williams saw his fewest targets since Week 7 in Saturday's loss, leading to just 19 yards through the air. On the flip side, the wide receiver was the beneficiary of a trick-play handoff in the second quarter, scoring a 61-yard touchdown on the ground. Later in the fourth quarter, Williams attempted to throw a pass downfield, which was intercepted by Mike Sainristil. Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown provided the Lions with a formidable duo at wide receiver this year and Williams figures to remain…read more

Reaches 1,000-yard threshold

Williams caught six of eight targets for 34 yards in Sunday's 31-9 win over the Vikings.

Analysis: Williams didn't get free for any of his signature deep balls, but the speedster did just enough to reach the 1,000-yard threshold, finishing the regular season with 1,001 receiving yards in 15 games. He scored on seven of his 58 catches while supplying 61 rushing yards and a touchdown on 11 rushing attempts. Williams and the Lions have a bye into the NFC divisional round as the top seed in the NFC Conference.

Two TDs in win

Williams brought in five of eight targets for 77 yards and a touchdown in the Lions' 40-34 win over the 49ers on Monday night. He also netted minus-2 yards on two carries but scored a rushing touchdown.

Analysis: Williams led the Lions in receiving yards and scored a receiving touchdown for the third straight game on a 42-yard hook and lateral in conjunction with Amon-Ra St. Brown early in the second quarter. Prior to that play, which saw Williams turn the corner and speed up the right sideline for a touchdown, the 2022 first-round pick had turned on the jets to record the second rushing score of his career on a three-yard run around left end to erase an early 7-0 deficit. Williams' speed has…read more

Career-high 143 rec yards in win

Williams caught five of seven targets for 143 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-17 win over the Bears. He also rushed once for seven yards.

Analysis: Williams blew by the defense for an 82-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter, which helped him set a new single-game career high in receiving yards. The speedster has surpassed 120 yards with a touchdown three times this season, and Williams takes a budding two-game touchdown streak into Week 17 against the 49ers. He's up to 47 catches for 890 yards and six touchdowns, all career highs.

Finds end zone in loss

Williams caught three of five targets for 37 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 48-42 loss to the Bills.

Analysis: Williams was limited to his lowest reception total since Week 10, but he did salvage his day with a three-yard touchdown catch with less than a minute left in the game. The wide receiver has now compiled 25 catches for 386 yards and two touchdowns over the last six games following his two-game suspension. Williams has emerged as a legitimate No. 2 option at wide receiver behind Amon-Ra St. Brown this season, catching 42 of 68 targets for 747 yards and five touchdowns while adding eight carries…read more

Paces team in receiving yards

Williams caught five of eight targets for 80 yards in Thursday's 34-31 win over the Packers.

Analysis: Williams led the team in receiving yards on a team-high eight targets, most notably reeling in a 28-yard catch in the first quarter. The wide receiver's dynamic skill set has led to some big performances this season, and the five catches matched his season high, which he now has accomplished in three straight games and five times overall in 2024. On the year, Williams has caught 39 of 63 targets for 710 yards and four touchdowns while appearing in 11 games.

Modest output in Week 13

Williams gathered in five of seven targets for 28 yards and took two carries for 18 yards during Thursday's 23-20 win against the Bears.

Analysis: After racking up at least 50 receiving yards in each of the Lions' previous three contests, Williams fell off a bit Week 13, despite tying his third-highest target count of the campaign. He did match Amon-Ra St. Brown for the team lead on that front, but all of St. Brown (5-73-0), Tim Patrick (2-48-0 on three targets) and David Montgomery (3-36-0 on three targets) ranked above Williams as pass catchers, and TE Sam LaPorta hauled in both of Jared Goff's TD passes. On a positive note, though,…read more

Leading receiver with 64 yards

Williams had five receptions (on seven targets) for 64 yards while adding one rushing attempt for four yards in Sunday's 24-6 win over the Colts.

Analysis: The Lions didn't need their top wideouts much in a comfortable win over the Colts, leading to modest stat lines for Williams and the rest of Detroit's receiving corps, though he did lead the team in receiving yardage. The 23-year-old has been hot and cold this season, resulting in a 29-602-4 line through nine healthy games. Williams' home-run potential will keep him a viable fantasy option for the contending Lions in a home matchup against the Bears on Thanksgiving Day.

Blows past century mark in win

Williams brought in four of six targets for 124 yards and a touchdown and rushed once for two yards in the Lions' 52-6 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.

Analysis: Williams finished a distant second in receptions, receiving yards and targets to Amon-Ra St. Brown, but he put together a standout performance in his own right. Williams sealed his second 100-yard performance of the season with a 64-yard catch-and-run touchdown early in the third quarter, his fourth score overall this season. Williams lines up for another favorable matchup when the Lions travel to face the Colts in a Week 12 interconference clash next Sunday.

Gains 53 yards in return

Williams (suspension) recorded three receptions (on five targets) for 53 yards in Sunday's 26-23 win over the Texans.

Analysis: Williams was reinstated following a two-game suspension after testing positive for performance-enhancing substances. The 2022 first-round selection resumed his role opposite star wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown. Williams is more of a boom-or-bust asset compared to some of his talented teammates, giving the receiver some deep-league appeal heading into next Sunday's tilt against Jacksonville.

Roster exemption lifted

The NFL lifted Williams' (suspension) roster exemption Wednesday.

Analysis: Williams is thus available again for the Lions in Week 10 against the Texans after serving a two-game suspension for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances. Prior to the ban, he regularly was logging at least 70 percent of the offensive snaps on a weekly basis, but his production was sporadic, es evidenced by a 17-361-3 receiving line on 30 targets and four carries for 32 yards through the first six games of the campaign. Williams will be rejoining a Lions offense…read more

Suspension over, has roster exemption

Williams' two-game suspension for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances was lifted Monday, but the Lions were given a roster exemption, allowing the team some time to bring him back to the active roster, per the NFL's transaction log.

Analysis: Williams sat out wins Week 8 against the Titans and Week 9 at Green Bay, but with his ban over, coach Dan Campbell told Benjamin Raven of MLive.com on Monday that the Lions are "gonna kick him out there with the offense and get him going. I expect him to be ready to roll." The aforementioned roster exemption doesn't have a known timeline to expire, but based on Campbell's comments, Williams appears as if he'll be available for Sunday's game at Houston.

Accepts two-game suspension

The NFL officially suspended Williams two games for violating the league's policy regarding performance-enhancing substances Thursday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Initial word of the suspension leaked Monday via Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com, and shortly after Williams announced through his agency Alliance Sports Management on Thursday that he won't appeal the ban, it became official. Williams thus will be out Week 8 against the Titans and Week 9 in Green Bay, after which he'll be eligible for reinstatement Nov. 4. In the meantime, Tim Patrick, Kalif Raymond and Allen Robinson will be the candidates for reps behind top wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown.

Not appealing two-game suspension

Williams announced via his agency Alliance Sports Management on Thursday that he won't appeal his two-game suspension for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances.

Analysis: Williams thus will be absent this Sunday against the Titans and Week 9 at Green Bay, making his next possible game action Sunday, Nov. 10 in Houston. While Williams is sidelined, the Lions will lean on Tim Patrick, Kalif Raymond and Allen Robinson alongside top wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown.

Facing two-game suspension

Williams is expected to receive a two-game suspension for violating the NFL's policy regarding performance-enhancing substances, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Williams is expected to accept the suspension, per Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com. That would result in Williams being sidelined until Week 10 at Houston. In Williams' absence, Tim Patrick and Kalif Raymond figure to serve as the primary backups behind Amon-Ra St. Brown at wide receiver.

Disappears in Week 7 win

Williams brought in his only target for minus-4 yards in the Lions' 31-29 win over the Vikings on Sunday.

Analysis: Williams' final line tells the tale of how forgettable his afternoon was in every sense. The third-year wideout had come into the division clash with a two-game touchdown streak and at least 76 receiving yards in four of his first five games of the season, but Sunday marked his second one-reception tally of the campaign. Williams' speed makes him a candidate to bounce back in noteworthy fashion on any given week, however, with a home matchup against the Titans next Sunday his first opportunity…read more

Makes long touchdown grab

Williams recorded three receptions on four targets for 76 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 47-9 win over the Cowboys. He added one rush for 11 yards.

Analysis: The Lions had relatively flat target distribution in Sunday's blowout win, with Kalif Raymond surprisingly leading the way with six looks. Though Williams has now seen only nine targets combined across his last three games, he continues to deliver electric plays. Against the Cowboys, that came early in the third quarter on a 37-yard touchdown during which Williams beat Trevon Diggs to the corner of the end zone to haul in a deep pass. Williams' profile suggests he should be a boom-or-bust…read more

Electric touchdown grab Monday

Williams brought in both targets for 80 yards and a touchdown in the Lions' 42-29 win over the Seahawks on Monday night.

Analysis: Williams appeared on his way to another disappointing performance after a one-catch dud against the Cardinals in Week 3, but he ripped off a 70-yard catch-and-run for a critical touchdown late in the third quarter Monday night. Williams now has three 70-yard-plus performances over the first four games of the season, but after drawing a combined 20 targets over the first pair of contests, he's logged just five in the subsequent two games. Williams will remain a somewhat big-play-dependent option…read more

Cools off in Week 3 win

Williams caught one of three targets for nine yards and rushed once for minus-7 yards in Sunday's 20-13 win over the Cardinals.

Analysis: Williams came crashing back down to earth after racking up 228 scrimmage yards through two games. The speedster's a big-play threat any time he gets the ball in his hands, but Williams' touch floor is much lower than those of wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown or the backfield duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. Williams will look to bounce back on the national stage next week, when the Lions host the Seahawks on MNF.

Has 20 targets through two games

Williams (ankle) caught five of 11 targets for 79 yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Buccaneers.

Analysis: Williams picked up where he left off after racking up 121 receiving yards and a touchdown last week, catching a 50-yard pass on Detroit's second drive to set up a field goal. After posting no more than seven targets in any game across his first two seasons, Williams has opened 2024 with nine targets in Week 1 and 11 in Week 2, though he was overshadowed by Amon-Ra St. Brown's 19 targets in the loss to Tampa Bay. Williams will continue stretching the field for Detroit with his elite speed in…read more

Good to go for Week 2

Williams (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers.

Analysis: Williams took a questionable tag into the weekend after he was a limited participant in all three of the Lions' practices this week due to an ankle injury. The Lions apparently saw enough from Williams in those practices to sign off on his availability for the Week 2 matchup, and with no reports that he'll be facing any restrictions Sunday, he should take on a sizable snap share as one of the Lions' starting receivers. The third-year wideout is coming off a breakthrough Week 1 outing against…read more

Trending toward playing

Williams (ankle), who is listed as questionable, is trending toward playing in Sunday's matchup against the Buccaneers, Jordan Schultz of BleacherReport.com reports.

Analysis: Schultz relays that the speedy wide receiver will be active Sunday, but the team won't officially clear Williams until it releases its inactive list 90 minutes before the 1 p.m. ET kickoff. The third-year wideout is coming off easily one of his best games career in Week 1 (five catches for 121 yards and one touchdown, plus a 13-yard carry) and should be in position to be an offensive factor once more against a Buccaneers secondary that is dealing with a slew of injuries.

Listed as questionable

Williams (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay.

Analysis: Williams was a limited practice participant Wednesday through Friday, after setting career highs for snap share (85 percent), targets (nine) and receiving yards (121) in a Week 1 win over the Rams. He'll have a favorable matchup Sunday if he avoids the inactive list ahead of a 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff, as Tampa Bay's secondary suffered numerous injuries in a Week 1 win over Washington, losing star safety Antoine Winfield (foot) and the top two backups at cornerback. The Lions don't have much WR…read more

Remains limited in practice

Williams (ankle) was limited at practice Thursday.

Analysis: The Lions continue to take it easy on Williams as he deals with an ankle injury. During the team's Week 1 win against the Rams, he served as one of quarterback Jared Goff's top options in the passing game to the tune of five catches (on nine targets) for 121 yards and one touchdown. Williams also added a 13-yard carry. Friday's practice report will reveal whether or not he enters the weekend with a designation for Sunday's game against the Buccaneers.

Dealing with ankle issue

Williams practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday due to an ankle injury.

Analysis: On the heels of a breakout Week 1 performance against the Rams in which he produced a 5-121-1 receiving line on nine targets, plus a 13-yard carry, Williams is tending to a health concern, which may stem from the first-half play in which he appeared to get banged up. He finished out the contest, but the Lions will take it easy on the third-year wide receiver as the team begins prepping for this Sunday's game versus the Buccaneers.

Carries passing attack in win

Williams caught five of nine targets for 121 yards and a touchdown while adding a 13-yard run in Sunday's 26-20 overtime win over the Rams.

Analysis: Williams accounted for 121 of Jared Goff's 217 passing yards, outperforming the combined receiving contributions of Sam LaPorta (45 yards on five targets), Jahmyr Gibbs (34 yards on six targets) and Amon-Ra St. Brown (13 yards on six targets). The highlight of Williams' night was a 52-yard touchdown catch in the third quarter on which he left cornerback Tre'Davious White in the dust. Detroit's other premier pass catchers won't always be so quiet, but Williams appears to have finally carved out…read more

Standing out early in camp

Williams has been an early standout at Lions training camp, Jeff Seidel of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis: Teammates Amon-Ra St. Brown and David Montgomery both praised Williams after the first day of camp. Heading into his third NFL season, Williams looks to be the Lions' No. 2 receiver after Josh Reynolds left for Denver in free agency. The 2022 first-round pick is a popular breakout candidate, playing in an efficient offense that has shaky WR depth behind him and St. Brown.

Making improvements

Coach Dan Campbell said Thursday that Williams is "a man on a mission" and has made notable improvements this offseason, Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Williams hasn't yet lived up to his 12th overall draft capital from back in 2022, but he's also faced unique hurdles to begin his NFL career. His big-play ability is undeniable, as is the opportunity for a third playmaker to emerge in Detroit's passing game behind standouts Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta, though plenty of targets should be distributed to running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. Potential for a year-three breakout is still there, but it depends on Williams truly…read more

Gets subtle vote of confidence

Williams is part of a WR room that didn't add any new bodies during the 2024 NFL Draft.

Analysis: It's a subtle vote of confidence in the 12th overall pick from the 2022 NFL Draft, as Detroit's roster otherwise has a slew of fourth-receiver types behind Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown, namely Kalif Raymond, Donovan Peoples-Jones, Antoine Green and Tre'Quan Smith. The No. 2 receiver spot may not be a high-volume task in an offense with ARSB, TE Sam LaPorta and an excellent RB duo, but it's nonetheless a positive sign for Williams that the Lions didn't prioritize adding competition for him…read more

Pushing to be 'full-time starter'

Head coach Dan Campbell indicated that Williams is set for an increased role in 2024, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports. "[Williams] is going to push to be a full-time starter, and that's what we're looking for. Everybody grows at a different rate. Maybe it's taken him a little bit longer, but he is developing and growing. The kid has come on. We got high hopes for him and see him continuing to grow," Campbell said Tuesday at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Analysis: Williams technically became a starter Week 7 of last season, but he never topped 70 percent of the offensive snaps in a single game until Detroit's season-ending loss to the 49ers in the playoffs. The 2022 first-round pick also saw just 3.5 targets per game after joining the starting unit. Given that the likes of Josh Reynolds and DJ Chark have regularly topped 80 percent of the offensive snaps while serving as the No. 2 wideout behind Amon-Ra St. Brown in recent years, Williams at least has…read more

Totals 383 total yards in 2023

Williams caught 24 passes (on 42 targets) for 354 yards and two touchdowns while rushing three times for 29 yards and one touchdown over 12 regular-season games in 2023.

Analysis: While Williams -- who missed the first four games of the year due to a gambling-related suspension -- has not truly lived up to his first-round pedigree through two seasons, he seems to be making strides in the right direction. After starting the season consistently logging less than half of the offensive snaps, the Alabama product finished the year seeing at least two-thirds of them while serving as the No. 2 wide receiver behind Amon-Ra St. Brown. Williams then made a number of catches over…read more

Logs full practice Wednesday

Williams (ankle) practiced fully Wednesday.

Analysis: After injuring his ankle during the Lions' Week 17 loss at Dallas, Williams kicked off Week 18 prep with an absence from drills. He continued to sit out practices Thursday and Friday, but he was listed with an illness on both occasions and eventually was ruled out ahead of this past Sunday's regular-season finale against the Vikings. Head coach Dan Campbell told Kyle Meinke of MLive.com on Monday that Williams was expected to practice this week and should be good to go for Sunday's wild-card…read more

Practicing to start week

Williams (ankle/illness) is practicing Wednesday, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.

Analysis: Williams sprained his ankle Week 17 and missed the Lions' Week 18 win over the Vikings, but head coach Dan Campbell said Monday that the wide receiver should return for the start of the playoffs. His participation Wednesday confirms that he's on the right track to be available for Sunday's wild-card game against the Rams.

Expected to play versus Los Angeles

Coach Dan Campbell said Monday that Williams (ankle/illness) is expected to be good to play Sunday against the Rams, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.

Analysis: Williams missed practice last Wednesday with an ankle injury and then came down with an illness Thursday. He sat out the Week 18 finale against the Vikings but is expected to practice this week leading up to Sunday's playoff game. Williams could take on a bigger target workload if Sam LaPorta (knee) is unable to play.

Ruled out for Week 18

Williams (ankle/illness) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Minnesota.

Analysis: Williams suffered an ankle injury early in the fourth quarter of last Saturday's 20-19 loss to Dallas and never returned to the game. He didn't practice this week, and the Lions never figured to push things given that their Week 18 result is highly unlikely to have an impact on their playoff seed (currently No. 3). It's possible some of the teams healthy players are held out or rested, and that combined with Williams being absent should lead to at least one of the team's depth receivers (Kalif…read more

Comes down with illness

Williams (ankle/illness) was a non-participant at Thursday's practice.

Analysis: Williams' listed absence Wednesday was due to the ankle injury that forced him out of this past Saturday's game at Dallas, but an illness now is afflicting the second-year wide receiver as well. Per Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com, coach Dan Campbell termed the ankle issue "nothing significant" Monday, but the new ailment clouds Williams' status as the Lions make their way through Week 18 prep. Friday's practice report could be telling for Williams' odds to suit up Sunday against the Vikings.

Starts Week 18 prep with absence

Head coach Dan Campbell said Williams (ankle) won't practice Wednesday, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.

Analysis: Campbell downplayed Williams' injury Monday, but the ankle issue is significant enough to keep the wide receiver off the practice field as the Lions begin Week 18 prep. The coach said that the team plans to play its starters as usual against the Vikings in Sunday's regular-season finale, but injured players could get the week off to heal up in advance of the playoffs. With that in mind, Williams may be held out as a precaution even if the injury isn't especially significant.

Injury not deemed significant

Lions head coach Dan Campbell said Monday that Williams' ankle injury is "nothing significant," Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Williams hurt his ankle in the fourth quarter of Saturday's loss to Dallas and was unable to return. However, the injury doesn't appear to be serious, and the second-year wideout is considered day-to-day, per Campbell. That being said, the Lions are unlikely to move out of the No. 3 playoff seed in the NFC, so it wouldn't be surprising if Williams is put on a snap count or held out altogether for Sunday's regular-season finale versus Minnesota.

Injures ankle Saturday

Williams exited Saturday's game at Dallas due to ankle injury.

Analysis: Williams made a splash play early in the fourth quarter, connecting with quarterback Jared Goff for a 63-yard grab. Thereafter, Williams went to the sideline and eventually the locker room, per Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site, from where he was deemed questionable to return. If he isn't able to do so, Williams will finish Week 17 with two catches (on three targets) for 69 yards and one carry for six yards.

Has career-high five catches Sunday

Williams gathered in five of six targets for 43 yards during Sunday's 30-24 win in Minnesota.

Analysis: Williams has struggled for consistent results in his second pro campaign, but he's now put together a cumulative 9-90-0 line on 13 targets over the last two contests. The 13 looks from Jared Goff marks the most usage in any two-game stretch of Williams' brief career, which may portend his current standing in the Lions offense with just two weeks remaining in the regular season. Fellow wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown again dominated Goff's attention to the tune of 12-106-1 on 14 targets, so…read more

Targeted seven times

Williams recorded four receptions on seven targets for 47 yards in Saturday's 42-17 win over the Broncos.

Analysis: Williams' overall stat line may not look significant, but he topped three targets for only the second time this season. He also showed ability as a possession receiver rather than just a deep threat, as he was targeted primarily in short areas of the field with the majority of his yardage coming after the catch. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta will continue to be prioritized as pass catchers, but Williams is still plenty capable of emerging as the third receiver in Detroit.

Held catchless in loss

Williams carried once for four yards and failed to secure either of his targets in Sunday's 28-13 loss to the Bears.

Analysis: Despite playing the second-most offensive snaps (38) at wide receiver behind Amon-Ra St. Brown (57), Williams was held without a reception for the second time in nine appearances on the season. The 22-year-old wideout's big-play potential is intriguing, but his production is far too inconsistent to make him a reliable fantasy option.

Scores on double reverse

Williams secured his only target for 11 yards while rushing once for 19 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's win over the Saints.

Analysis: Williams again logged around 60 percent of the offensive snaps, but an increased workload in the passing game has yet to follow the jump in playing time he is seeing. At least Williams made the most of the touches he had, with one of the game's highlights being a double reverse that saw Willams display his high-end speed for a 19-yard rushing touchdown. The Alabama product will next take aim at a Chicago defense allowing the sixth-most points per game (24.7) in 2023.

Role expanding

Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson indicated that Williams could see increased usage moving forward. "[Williams'] reps are going up. He continues to get out there and the ball is just going to keep gravitating to him a little bit more than it already has."

Analysis: After seeing no more than a quarter of the offensive snaps in any game as a rookie and no more than 50 percent in any game before Detroit's Week 9 bye week, Williams logged between 52 and 68 percent of the offensive snaps in each of the three games since the bye. While the Alabama product didn't see more than three targets in any of them, there is legitimate hope that his workload could increase since nothing correlates stronger with statistical production than playing time.

Totals 51 yards

Williams caught two of three targets for 51 yards during Thursday's loss to the Packers.

Analysis: While Williams' 58 percent snap share is a downturn from the career-high 68 percent he saw last week, he set a new career high with 49 offensive snaps on a day the Lions ran 84 offensive plays. That figure matched No. 2 wide receiver Josh Reynolds, who had consistently been seeing around three quarters of the offensive snaps when healthy this year, though Kalif Raymond and Donovan Peoples-Jones saw added snaps as well. However, even though the recent increase in playing time has been a positive…read more

Two catches in Week 11 win

Williams caught two of three targets for 44 yards and one touchdown in Sunday's 31-26 win over the Bears.

Analysis: Most of Williams' yardage came on a 32-yard touchdown catch, which is his second-longest play of the season after a 45-yard touchdown reception against the Buccaneers in Week 6. The big-play threat has drawn more than three targets only once in six 2023 appearances heading into Thursday's home game against the Packers on Thanksgiving.

Takes step in right direction

Williams secured both of his targets for 18 yards during Sunday's 41-38 win over the Chargers.

Analysis: While Williams has yet to put together a breakout performance, he seemingly took a step in the right direction while logging a career-high 52 percent of the offensive snaps coming out of Detroit's bye week. In addition to not dropping any of his passes, Williams made a key block during David Montgomery's 75-yard touchdown scamper that contributed heavily to the Lions' three-point win. Given that offensive coordinator Ben Johnson reportedly told Williams that his involvement in the offense won't…read more

Another forgettable showing

Williams caught two of three targets for 16 yards during Monday's win over Las Vegas.

Analysis: After a brutal Week 7 showing that saw Williams catch zero passes on six targets, Williams dropped another pass on his first target of the game before getting leveled on a jet sweep that counted as a reception for Williams. While he otherwise managed to catch a pass for a positive gain, Williams has only one of those over the past two weeks despite now running as the clear No. 3 receiver behind Amon-Ra St. Brown and Josh Reynolds. The bright side is that Williams is earning targets at a much…read more

No output despite six targets

Williams saw six targets but did not catch a pass during Sunday's loss to Baltimore.

Analysis: Williams turned in a disappointing performance despite a new career high in usage, not only dropping a pair of fourth-quarter passes but also stopping short on another route and being the intended target on Jared Goff's lone interception. Outside of catching a pair of long touchdowns thus far into his young career -- a 41-yard catch in Week 14 of last season and a 45-yarder last week against Tampa Bay -- Williams has otherwise caught just three of 19 targets for 10 yards through nine career…read more

Makes most of limited role

Williams recorded two receptions on three targets for 53 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-6 win over the Buccaneers.

Analysis: Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta accounted for 26 targets, while no other Detroit receiver saw more than three. Williams was among that group, though he managed to stand out thanks to a long 45-yard touchdown reception late in the third quarter. In addition to showing off his deep speed, Williams made an impressive adjustment on the underthrown ball and managed to out-maneuver a defender blanketed on him. He has only six targets across his first two games of the season, though his performance…read more

Small role in debut

Williams caught two of three targets for two yards during Sunday's 42-24 win over Carolina.

Analysis: Williams' highly-anticipated 2023 debut was more or less of a dud from a production standpoint. Despite the absences of Amon-Ra St. Brown (abdomen) and Jahmyr Gibbs (hamstring), Williams tied for fourth among Lions wide receivers in snaps and didn't do much with the opportunities he was given. Meanwhile, Josh Reynolds, Kalif Raymond and Sam LaPorta did most of the heavy lifting for a Detroit passing game that efficiently accumulated 236 yards. Even if St. Brown remains sidelined Week 6 at Tampa…read more

Making season debut Sunday

Williams (non-injury) is listed as active Sunday versus the Panthers.

Analysis: With a suspension for violating the NFL's gambling policy behind him, Williams will be available to the Lions offense for the first time this season. On its face, the situation would seem to be a positive one for the second-year pro with top wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown (abdomen) sidelined. However, coach Dan Campbell mentioned earlier in the week that Williams would be eased into action, per Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported Sunday morning…read more

Limited role expected in debut

Williams (not injury related), who is listed as questionable but on track to play Sunday against the Panthers, is expected to be limited to around 20 snaps in his season debut, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: After missing the first four games of the season while serving a suspension for violating the NFL's gambling policy, Williams was cleared to return to practice this week and was a full participant in sessions Wednesday through Friday. Though the time off while he served his suspension has allowed Williams to heal up from his preseason hamstring injury, the Lions don't appear ready to turn him loose for a full-time role in his 2023 debut. Even though he'll likely be in store for a light snap…read more

Expected to play Sunday

Williams (non-injury) is expected to play in Sunday's Week 5 game against the Panthers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Williams had his six-game gambling ban reduced to four games earlier in the week and was immediately eligible to return to the team. He practiced this week and showed enough to get on the field Sunday. Even with Amon-Ra St. Brown (abdomen) doubtful and not expected to play, Williams shouldn't be counted on for a full-time role. Josh Reynolds and Kalif Raymond are the favorites for snaps.

Listed as questionable

Williams (not injury related) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Carolina.

Analysis: This would seem to be the Lions' way of suggesting that Williams may not be ready to play even though he's healthy and no longer suspended. It also adds to concerns about his potential workload in the event he's active ahead of the 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff, though the Lions don't exactly have great WR alternatives with No. 1 Amon-Ra St. Brown (abdomen) listed as doubtful and Josh Reynolds (groin) deemed questionable. Reynolds was a full practice participant Friday and at this point looks like the…read more

Logs full practice Wednesday

Williams was listed as a full participant on Wednesday's estimated practice report.

Analysis: Williams' six-game suspension to begin the season due to a violation of the NFL's gambling policy was reduced to four games last Friday after the league and NFL Players Association agreed to an amended policy. The Lions have a roster exemption for Williams until next Monday, but considering the team's top two wide receivers are tending to injuries, Williams could have a decent role off the bat Sunday against the Panthers, despite head coach Dan Campbell's assertion Monday that the second-year…read more

Set for supporting role

Head coach Dan Campbell said that Williams will have a limited role should the receiver be active in Week 5 against the Panthers, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports. "I'm not looking for yards, I'm not looking for explosives, not looking for touchdowns. Man, just be a reliable receiver, like any of those guys in the room. That's it," Campbell said Monday.

Analysis: Williams saw only two touches, one catch and one rush, in six games as a rookie last season after his NFL debut was delayed while he recovered from ACL surgery. He is healthy for his return from a gambling-related suspension Monday, but Campbell not only made it clear that the wideout "can't play 60 plays" this weekend, he insisted that Detroit needs "to see where [Williams] is at with football" to figure out how dependable the Alabama product will be. The 12th overall pick in the 2022 draft…read more

Suspension officially over

The NFL reinstated Williams from his suspension related to the league's gambling policy Monday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Initially, Williams was handed a six-game ban to kick off the current campaign, but after the league and NFL Player's Association agreed to a new policy Friday, it was reduced to four games, making him eligible to return to action Week 5. Coach Dan Campbell spoke of Williams' role upon gaining clearance to play, telling Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com on Monday that "we'll see where it goes, and it's all about improvement." The Lions don't expect to give Williams a full complement of snaps off the…read more

Will have role Week 5

Lions head coach Dan Campbell suggested Monday that he anticipates Williams (suspension) filling a role in Sunday's game against the Panthers, though the receiver may not see a heavy snap count in his season debut, Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports. "We'll see where it goes, and it's all about improvement," Campbell said of Williams.

Analysis: Williams had been in line to serve a six-game suspension to begin the season after receiving the ban in April for violating the NFL's gambling policy, but he'll wind up missing just four contests after the league and players union agreed last week to revise the policy. Before the revised policy was announced, Williams was eligible to return to the Lions' facility last week, and he'll now be able to take part in practices for the first time since the preseason. Williams was limited to just six…read more

Now eligible for Week 5

Williams is eligible to play as soon as Week 5 against Carolina after the NFL and NFLPA agreed Friday on a new policy for player gambling, Justin Rogers of The Detroit News reports.

Analysis: The new policy increases punishments for betting on NFL games and decreases punishments for betting on other spots from team facilities. The league originally suspended Williams for the first six games of the season but will now allow him to come back after sitting out four weeks, potentially providing another boost to a Detroit passing game that's largely leaned on WRs Amon-Ra St. Brown and Josh Reynolds and TE Sam LaPorta. If Williams lives up to his first-round billing it'll be one of the…read more

Back at facility but can't practice

Williams (suspension) returned to Detroit's team facility Monday, Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports. Williams remains ineligible to participate in group workouts or practices, and the earliest he can play in a game is Week 7 against Baltimore.

Analysis: In addition to his gambling suspension, Williams also has been rehabbing a hamstring injury, though it's unclear where he stands in the recovery process from that injury. Detroit's team doctors will get a chance to assess the health of the wide receiver's hamstring with nearly a month remaining before he'll be eligible to play. Once he returns, the 2022 first-round pick could find himself battling for playing time with Josh Reynolds and Kalif Raymond. Reynolds is tied with rookie running back…read more

Away from team for next month

Williams (suspension) has a "plan in place" to rehab his hamstring injury until Week 4 when he can work with team doctors again, Nolan Bianchi of The Detroit News reports.

Analysis: Williams has been barred from the team facility since Tuesday and can't rejoin the Lions until the start of Week 4 (Tues., Sept. 26) or play in a game until Week 7 (Oct. 22 at BAL). A hamstring injury cut his preseason short after a 2-18-0 receiving line on seven targets in the opener, but it shouldn't end up impacting his regular season given that he's suspended for the first six games anyway. The Lions discussed a rehab plan with Williams' agent for the four weeks he's away from the team.

Likely done for preseason

Coach Dan Campbell said Thursday that Williams (hamstring/suspension) won't play Saturday versus the Jaguars and "there's a good chance" he's done for the preseason, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.

Analysis: Williams is already suspended for the first six games of the regular season, giving him plenty of time to recover, but every missed offseason rep will be impactful for the second-year pro. A 2022 first-round pick, Williams scarcely played as a rookie while working his way back from an ACL tear suffered in college. As he won't be eligible to even participate in team practices while suspended, it wouldn't be surprising if Williams gets off to a slow start when eligible to play, and healthy,…read more

Appears to pull hamstring

Williams (suspension) left Wednesday's practice early due to an apparent right hamstring injury, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis: Williams was able to walk to the locker room under his own power, according to Kyle Meinke of MLive.com. The second-year wideout, who is already facing a six-game suspension to begin the season, missed time earlier in training camp due to a minor leg injury. After missing most of his rookie season while recovering from an ACL tear, Williams can scarce afford to miss many of the preseason reps remaining ahead of Week 1.

Seven targets in preseason opener

Williams caught two of seven targets for 18 yards in Friday's 21-16 preseason win over the Giants.

Analysis: The Lions dialed up a few deep balls to Williams, but he and backup quarterback Nate Sudfeld couldn't get on the same page. After missing most of his rookie season while recovering from a torn ACL, Williams is expected to stretch the field for Detroit with his speed once his six-game suspension for gambling expires. The 2022 first-round pick should continue to be featured heavily throughout the preseason.

In line for many preseason reps

Head coach Dan Campbell said Wednesday that Williams (suspension) will get "a ton of game reps" during the Lions' three preseason contests, Tim Twentyman of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Detroit opens its exhibition slate Aug. 11 against the Giants, a game in which Williams can expect to see significant run. Whether or not that'll be with Jared Goff and the rest of the first-team offense is unknown, but, as Campbell noted, Williams "didn't practice last year" due to his recovery from a torn ACL that sidelined the wide receiver until Week 13. Once he got on the field, Williams' snap count was managed, and he logged just two touches, but they went for a 41-yard touchdown catch…read more

Getting open but dropping passes

Williams (suspension) had little trouble creating separation from defenders at Sunday's practice but struggled with drops, MLive.com's Kyle Meinke reports.

Analysis: It was the 22-year-old's first padded practice of the summer after missing a few days with a minor leg injury. The Lions figure to keep him fairly busy in practice and perhaps even the preseason, considering Williams will have six weeks to rest at the start of the regular season while serving a suspension for violations of the NFL's gambling policy. Once the 2022 first-round pick is eligible to play, he should have every chance to emerge as the top perimeter threat in an offense that otherwise…read more

Slated to practice Sunday

Williams (leg) is scheduled to take part in Sunday's practice, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.

Analysis: Williams missed the Lions' first four sessions of training camp with a leg injury, but he'll be on the field Sunday for what's expected to be a light practice involving limited contact. Given that Williams missed most of his rookie season in 2022 while recovering from a torn ACL, the Lions may elect to proceed cautiously with easing him back to full practice. Even if he's not cleared to play in the Aug. 11 preseason opener versus the Giants, Williams should be back up to full speed at some…read more

Dealing with minor leg injury

Coach Dan Campbell said Tuesday he expects Williams (leg/suspension) to miss "a day or two" of practice due to a leg injury, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.

Analysis: Williams suffered the leg injury in practice Tuesday, so it's encouraging that he won't have to miss much of the early portion of training camp. The second-year pro needs all the reps he can get, as his recovery from ACL surgery limited him to a depth role in just six appearances as a rookie, and he will be suspended for the first six games of the 2023 season for violating the NFL's gambling policy. The 2022 first-round pick is expected to handle a starting role alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown once…read more

Making progress entering Year 2

Coach Dan Campbell said Thursday that Williams (suspension) is "miles ahead of where he was last year" and praised his activity in OTAs, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.

Analysis: Williams wasn't able to participate in last year's offseason activities due to a torn ACL, but per Twentyman he's now made significant improvements, with Campbell singling out his route running in particular. The speedster's ACL recovery hindered his production as a rookie, limiting him to just one catch (a 41-yard touchdown) in six appearances, in addition to one carry that went for another 40 yards. Now back to full health, Williams' big-play skillset could set him up as an extremely…read more

Given six-game suspension

The NFL announced Friday that Williams will be suspended six games for violation of the league's gambling policy, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Williams and Stanley Berryhill are being handed six-game suspensions for violating the NFL's gambling policy, while C.J. Moore, Quintez Cephus and Shaka Toney are receiving indefinite suspensions, minimum one year. Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports that the incident involving Williams and Berryhill occurred within team facilities, and involved online betting on non-NFL games. The surprising development throws a wrench in projecting Williams' prospects for the 2023 campaign, as he had been a…read more

Big play wiped out by penalty

Williams played 14 of the Lions' 60 snaps on offense and failed to reel in his lone target in Sunday's 20-16 win over the Packers.

Analysis: Though he went without any official receptions in the Lions' regular-season finale, Williams provided a glimpse of his vast potential on what would have been a 66-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter that was ultimately wiped out by a holding penalty. On the play in question, Williams found an opening in the defense behind Packers safety Darnell Savage, then jetted past Green Bay safety Adrian Amos on his way to what would have been his second career touchdown and third 40-plus-yard…read more

Big rushing gain

Williams rushed once for 40 yards during Sunday's 41-10 win over Chicago.

Analysis: Williams broke loose for a long rushing gain but otherwise remained a fringe contributor to the Lions offense. Don't count on the promising rookie for fantasy production when Detroit travels to Green Bay in Week 18.

Workload not increasing

Williams was targeted once but did not catch a pass during Saturday's loss to Carolina.

Analysis: Williams again logged less than 20 percent of the snaps with Detroit seemingly keen on not putting too much on his plate early on in his career. With this unlikely to change over the final two games of the season, the Alabama product will remain off the fantasy radar in Week 17 against Chicago.

Remains in small role

Williams was targeted once but did not catch a pass during Sunday's 20-17 win over the Jets.

Analysis: The Lions simply don't seem willing to put too much on Williams' plate early on in his career. Not only did the explosive rookie again run behind a clear top trio of Amon-Ra St. Brown, DJ Chark and Josh Reynolds, but Williams has yet to overtake Kalif Raymond for the No. 4 role, either. It's entirely possible fantasy managers will have to wait until next season before Williams can be counted on for statistical production.

TD on first career catch

Williams caught one of two targets for 41 yards and one touchdown during Sunday's 34-23 win over Minnesota.

Analysis: Williams looked like he could be in line for a big day after getting wide open for a long touchdown early on, but he ended up logging just 19 percent of the offensive snaps after seeing 11 percent in his professional debut last week. Meanwhile, Josh Reynolds (60 percent) remained the clear No. 3 option behind Amon-Ra St. Brown (87) and DJ Chark (85). While Williams could continue pushing Reynolds for a larger role down the stretch, Williams currently seems unlikely to be seeing enough playing…read more

Tiny role in pro debut

Williams was targeted once but did not catch a pass during Sunday's 40-14 win over the Jaguars.

Analysis: After talk of Williams potentially seeing time on special teams in his professional debut, the rookie was contained to just eight snaps on offense. Meanwhile, Amon-Ra St. Brown and DJ Chark each had their way with the Jaguars secondary in the blowout victory, giving the Lions no reason to rush Williams into heavy snaps. With that said, there is no denying the dynamic element that Williams could bring to the table as a third receiver in Detroit's offense, so look for Williams' role to only grow…read more

Expected to have special-teams role

Williams (knee) will be eased into the Lions' offensive game plan in Sunday's game against the Jaguars and may also see some work as a gunner on special teams, Jay Glazer reported on "Fox NFL Sunday."

Analysis: The Lions' decision to expose a key asset like Williams to special-teams coverage under any circumstance is puzzling, especially as he makes his season debut following an 11-month recovery from a torn ACL. Don't expect Williams to remain a contributor on coverage units for long, as the Lions eventually plan to have him as a full-time player on offense.

Facing limited snaps in debut

Williams (knee), who was activated from the reserve/non-football injury list Saturday, is expected to be on a "very limited snap count" in his NFL debut Sunday against the Jaguars, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The Lions envision the No. 12 overall pick in this year's draft filling a major role on offense over the long haul, but he'll be eased back into the mix Sunday after having suffered a torn ACL during his final collegiate game at Alabama back in January. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Kalif Raymond and DJ Chark are likely to continue serving as Detroit's main three receivers this week, but Williams should have a decent chance at jumping Raymond and Chark on the depth chart by season's end if he remains free…read more

Set for debut

Williams (knee) was activated off the reserve/non-football injury list Saturday and is expected to play in Sunday's matchup against the Jaguars, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: It's unclear how much Williams will actually play as the Lions are arguably the healthiest they've been all season at wide receiver, but given the team wasn't pressed against a deadline with this activation, there's clearly some plan to involve the Alabama product. The rookie receiver hasn't played since tearing his ACL back in November, but when healthy he could be regarded as one of the more electric playmakers in the entire league. Expect Williams to easily gain a foothold on a top-three WR…read more

Uncertain for Sunday

Coach Dan Campbell said Friday morning that the Lions hadn't made a decision on Williams (knee) for Sunday's game against the Jaguars, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Campbell said Monday it would be a "tall order" for Williams to play, but the Lions apparently are considering it...or at least giving their opponent that impression. The rookie returned to practice last Monday and is now almost 11 months removed from his ACL tear, so it won't be too surprising if he's activated from injured reserve Friday or Saturday to play in Sunday's game. If not, Williams' next chances to play will be Week 14 against Minnesota and Week 15 at the Jets. He'll likely be a…read more

Week 13 return not likely

Lions head coach Dan Campbell said Monday that it "would be a tall order" for Williams (knee) to play Sunday against the Jaguars, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis: Though Campbell hasn't completely closed the door on the possibility of Williams -- who returned to practice last Monday -- being activated from the reserve/non-football injury list ahead of the contest, a potential Week 14 return is a more realistic outcome for the rookie wideout. In the meantime, Amon-Ra St. Brown, DJ Chark and Kalif Raymond are in line to continue to lead the Lions' wideout corps, with Josh Reynolds and Tom Kennedy mixing in.

Nearing return, but not ready yet

Williams (knee) will not be activated from the reserve/non-football injury list for Thursday's contest against the Bills, but he could make his season debut as early as Week 13, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Detroit designated Williams for a return to practice Monday, but the rookie first-round pick hasn't yet gone full-speed during drills and never seemed like a realistic candidate to play Thanksgiving Day. Williams is on track to ramp up to a full practice workload next week, and it sounds as though as long as he avoids any setbacks, he could make his NFL debut as early as Dec. 4 versus the Jaguars. On a bright note for Thanksgiving Day, Josh Reynolds (back) is expected to be available for the…read more

Designated for return to practice

The Lions announced Monday that Williams (knee) has been designated for a return from the reserve/non-football injury list.

Analysis: Williams isn't expected to be a candidate for action during this week's Thanksgiving Day contest against the Bills, but the transaction is a sign that the rookie first-round pick is nearing full health after suffering a left ACL tear in January during the National Championship Game while still with Alabama. Detroit will have a 21-day window to evaluate Williams at practice without him counting against the 53-man roster, and he can be activated at any time during that span. Once back to full…read more

Likely for post-Thanksgiving debut

Lions head coach Dan Campbell said Wednesday that he expects Williams (knee) to be designated for return from injured reserve at some point after Thanksgiving Day, making the team's Week 13 game versus the Jaguars his earliest possible debut date, Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Campbell said it's possible that Williams practices before Thanksgiving Day, but added that he doesn't expect the rookie first-round pick to do so, much less take the field Nov. 24 versus Buffalo even if he is designated for return from IR prior to that game. Woodard relays that Campbell offered either Week 13 versus Jacksonville or Week 14 against the Giants as more realistic return targets for Williams, who Detroit has avoided rushing back from the ACL tear he suffered while playing for…read more

Season debut not imminent

Lions head coach Dan Campbell said Wednesday that Williams (knee) is at least a month away from playing, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.

Analysis: Williams remains on the the reserve/NFI list, where he began the season while he continues to recover from the ACL tear he suffered in January while playing for Alabama during the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. The rookie first-round pick still hasn't resumed practicing, and Campbell's latest update suggests that the earliest Williams will make his NFL debut is likely late November or early December. The Lions could also have DJ Chark (ankle) back from injured reserve by…read more

Not ready to come off NFI list

Williams (knee), who is recovering from a torn ACL, isn't ready yet to return from the reserve/NFI list, Jeff Risdon of USA Today reports.

Analysis: That said, head coach Dan Campbell noted Wednesday that the wideout has "turned the corner over the last month," while adding that the Lions are "pretty optimistic" that the 2022 first-round pick will play at some point this season. Williams remains without a concrete timetable for a potential NFL debut.

Won't return until after bye

Williams (knee) is making progress in his recovery from a torn ACL, but head coach Dan Campbell said Wednesday that the Lions won't designate the rookie to return from the reserve/NFI list until after their Week 6 bye, Jeff Risdon of USA Today reports.

Analysis: While Williams technically could come off the NFI list and play as soon as Week 5, the Lions never had much expectation for the first-round pick to contribute before the bye. Early feedback from the returns of Chris Godwin and Michael Gallup provides hope Williams can earn a role by midseason, as the two veteran wideouts -- both of whom played Week 4 -- suffered ACL tears not long before Williams fell to the same injury in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game in January. Once…read more

No timetable for return

General manager Brad Holmes hasn't offered a timetable for Williams' (knee) return to game action, Benjamin Raven of MLive.com reports. "You got to be a little bit conservative and on the safer side when it comes to forecasts and those returns to play. But hopefully, he stays on track, and hopefully it's sooner than later, but we're going to continue to be smart with him," Holmes said.

Analysis: After tearing his ACL last January during the National Championship Game, Williams has progressed well in his recovery and recently posted a video of himself running and cutting on a turf field, per Williams' Instagram account via Vox Media. However, even though it looks like the rookie is getting close to being ready, Williams will spend at least the first four games of the season on the NFI list, and it seems like Detroit is prepared to hold him out longer if need be. With DJ Chark and…read more

Placed on reserve/NFI list

Williams (knee) was placed on the reserve/non-football injury list by the Lions on Tuesday.

Analysis: Williams tore his ACL on Jan. 10, so it's not a surprise that he won't be ready to start the coming season. Tuesday's transaction ensures that the No. 12 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft will miss at least the Lions' first four contests. In his absence, the team's wideout corps will be led by Amon-Ra St. Brown and DJ Chark.

Won't be ready Week 1

Williams (knee) won't be ready for Week 1, though the Lions are pleased with his rehab progress, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Tampa's Chris Godwin tentatively appears on track for Week 1 after tearing his ACL in December, but guys who suffered the same injury any later than that -- notably Williams and Dallas WR Michael Gallup -- are expected to miss at least a game or two at the beginning of the season. In Williams' case, a cautious approach is especially likely given that he's rookie on a team that's considered a longshot for the playoffs. He'd be ruled out for the first four weeks of the season if the Lions were to…read more

Placed on non-football injury list

The Lions placed Williams (knee) on the active/non-football injury list Sunday.

Analysis: As expected, Williams won't be ready for the start of training camp and instead will continue his rehab from the ACL surgery he had in January. After investing the 12th overall pick on the wideout, the Lions likely will continue to exercise the utmost caution, but when the rookie eventually is cleared, he'll form a potentially dynamic WR trio with Amon-Ra St. Brown and DJ Chark.

Looking unlikely for start of camp

Coach Dan Campbell (knee) said Thursday "I don't see" Williams (knee) being ready for the start of training camp, Chris Burke of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Campbell said he's "very hopeful" about Williams, but that he doesn't expect the rookie first-round pick to be ready for the start of training camp. Still, that leaves a potential window for Williams to return to the field at some point in camp, and the idea of him suiting up at some point during the first months of the regular season has been floated previously. Williams is coming off a left ACL tear suffered back in January, and when ready for game action, he stands to join Amon-Ra St. Brown…read more