Detroit Lions Part Ways With Rookie WR For Jameson Williams Return

The Detroit Lions are making roster adjustments to welcome back Jameson Williams, parting ways with undrafted rookie receiver Isaiah Williams.

On November 7, the team announced it waived rookie Isaiah Williams, who had earned a roster spot after a standout training camp but appeared in only two games this season. This move clears a roster spot for Jameson Williams, who is eligible to return after serving a two-game suspension for violating the league’s policy on performance-enhancing substances.

Injuries Hampered Rookie Receiver’s Start

According to Christian Booher of SI.com, Isaiah Williams faced an abdominal injury early in the season, which kept him sidelined for the first six games. This season, he logged two receptions for six yards, both during the team’s Week 8 victory over the Tennessee Titans.

Williams signed with Detroit after going undrafted and impressed during the preseason, making 11 catches for 123 yards while contributing on special teams. His preseason efforts earned him a place on the final 53-man roster.

Booher noted, however, that Williams was ultimately outperformed by another receiver who initially held a lower position on the depth chart.

“Detroit has benefited from the rise of veteran Tim Patrick at wide receiver,” Booher wrote. “After joining the practice squad post-release from the Denver Broncos, Patrick has secured a significant role on the team. Over seven games this season, Patrick has recorded 12 receptions for 177 yards and made several important blocks.”

Should Isaiah Williams clear waivers, Booher suggested he could be a candidate for Detroit’s practice squad.

Jameson Williams is reinstated and his suspension is over. Dan Campbell used a kicking motion to say how the Lions plan to get him going right away.

"We're gonna kick him out there with the offense and get him going. I expect him to be ready to roll," he said. pic.twitter.com/JeanSTLzMN
— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) November 4, 2024

Team Prepares for Jameson Williams’ Return

The Lions are eagerly awaiting Jameson Williams’ return, with his two-game suspension now complete. Fellow receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown expressed excitement about having Williams back, particularly with two upcoming games in indoor stadiums.

“It feels amazing. Much needed. I feel like he’s gonna bring a huge spark to our offense,” St. Brown told SI.com. “Finally, no more rain conditions. The Tennessee game was kind of a challenge. Hopefully, this game we can regain some offensive rhythm. Having him back is gonna be huge for us. I’m excited, and I know he is too.”

St. Brown also praised Williams’ progress, noting steady improvement following his rookie season, which was marred by an ACL injury suffered in college.

“It’s been growing every year since I’ve got here. Each year, you always aim to improve, to understand defenses better,” St. Brown explained. “For us, it’s all about understanding what the other sees out there. I know his preferences as a route-runner, and he knows mine. He’s able to anticipate throws really well. That chemistry, built over four years together, definitely makes a difference.”