The Detroit Lions made a significant move this offseason by exercising wide receiver Jameson Williams’ fifth-year option, locking him in through the 2027 season. While the decision reflects some confidence in his future, questions remain about whether the controversial wideout will ultimately earn a long-term extension in Detroit.
Williams, a former first-round pick, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also faced setbacks—including two NFL suspensions, one for violating the league’s gambling policy and another related to performance-enhancing substances. His inconsistent play on the field and off-field issues have left some insiders skeptical about his long-term future with the team.
However, that uncertainty may have been partially addressed this week as two of the Lions’ newly hired coaches offered high praise for Williams’ growth and dedication.
New Offensive Coordinator Backs Williams for a Breakout Year
With former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson departing for the Chicago Bears’ head coaching role, the Lions promoted John Morton—who previously served as Detroit’s senior offensive assistant in 2022. Morton was enthusiastic about Williams’ development and commitment since returning to the team.
“Unbelievable. Just unbelievable,” Morton said, via The Athletic. “When I first got here, he came in to see me, we had a chat… I’m painting the picture, this is what you need to do, this is how I see it—and he has been unbelievable. In the meetings, the attention to detail… I’m so excited to see him this year. It’s going to be a breakout year for him.”
Wide Receivers Coach Impressed by Offseason Commitment
Scottie Montgomery, the team’s new wide receivers coach, echoed similar sentiments. Montgomery noted that Williams has shown initiative and leadership early in the offseason.
“When I came off the couple-week break we had, Jamo was already here,” Montgomery said. “In the offseason, I didn’t have to call him. Once I got the job, he knew what needed to be done. He came by just to say hello, and it’s been all business since. Two days ago… probably one of the best meetings I’ve seen from him. It was a total offensive meeting. The communication, the football IQ—he’s asking all the right questions. That’s exactly what you want to see.”
Still More to Prove Before a Long-Term Commitment
Despite the internal optimism, others suggest the Lions may remain cautious. According to Detroit Free Press reporter Dave Birkett, the team is in no rush to extend Williams beyond his fifth year.
“No deal is imminent for Williams and the Lions,” Birkett wrote. “And there’s a case to be made the Lions should hold off on signing their young receiver to a big-money extension. Given Williams’ limited and questionable NFL track record so far, the most prudent approach from the team is to slow-play a new deal.”
While the Lions are showing confidence in Williams heading into a critical season, his long-term status remains a wait-and-see situation. Still, the early praise from the coaching staff could signal a turning point for one of the NFL’s most scrutinized young receivers.
