Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams is back in the spotlight, and this time, it’s for an off-field issue.
According to WXYZ in Detroit, local authorities are investigating why Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams was released after a gun was discovered in the vehicle he was riding in during a traffic stop.
Williams was reportedly in the passenger seat while his brother drove the car, which was stopped around midnight for speeding.
Williams’ brother informed the officers that there were two firearms in the car: one in the backseat and another under the passenger seat. The gun beneath Williams’ seat was reportedly registered in his name, although he does not have a concealed pistol license (CPL). The other gun was registered to his brother, who did have a CPL.
During the stop, body camera footage shows Williams being placed in handcuffs and put in a police car. However, a sergeant arrived on the scene, made several phone calls, and ultimately, Williams was released without a police report or warrant request.
According to WXYZ, the officer initially did not recognize Williams, but the wide receiver identified himself repeatedly.
“I play for the Lions, bro. I’m Jameson Williams,” he stated, later adding: “Bro, I play for the Detroit Lions.” Finally, he reiterated, “Bro, I play for the Lions!”
At one point, Williams’ brother told police the firearm belonged to him, but Williams later acknowledged that the gun was his.
“I got the gun for protection,” Williams explained. “Do you guys know where I live at? Detroit!”
Williams’ attorney, Todd Flood, issued a statement on the incident, suggesting that the driver’s license to carry might cover both firearms. The Detroit Lions also released a statement regarding the situation.
Currently, Williams is serving a two-game suspension for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substance policy. Last season, he served a four-game suspension for breaching the league’s gambling policy.