The NFL finally acknowledged it was overly-harsh suspending Jameson Williams six games for violating its convoluted gambling policy.
He is back two games earlier than anticipated and eligible to play Sunday vs. Carolina.
It is, rightfully, being viewed as another wonderful development for the surging 3-1 Lions, who sit alone atop the NFC North.
Yet, there is a need to tap the brakes on Jamo’s perceived impact. Head coach Dan Campbell, wisely, intimated as much this week.
The Lions are a solid squad. They have won 11 of their last 14 games. They are not, however, a perfect entity. An area of concern is deep speed at receiver. Williams, the 12th overall selection in the 2022 NFL Draft, definitely possesses it.
Truth is, though, we haven’t seen much of Williams, and the brief glimpses have been unimpressive. He was placed in the lineup on a limited basis late in the 2022 season after recovering from ACL surgery. While he made two big plays with his speed, one on a particularly electrifying reverse, his receiving skills were alarmingly unrefined. Williams also displayed a self-absorbed attitude that looked out of place with the current version of the Lions, who are, even the budding stars, all about the team.
The length of the gambling suspension was unfair, and while otherwise nothing Williams has done off the field has been overly disturbing, he's shown signs of immaturity.
In training camp and preseason, Williams did not display the anticipated improvement as a pass catcher. He dropped too many passes and his catch radius was small.
Adding this all together makes Jamo an uncertain commodity.
Any production the Lions receive from Williams will be an unexpected bonus. There is no need to force him into the lineup, nor target him unnecessarily in upcoming games.
Nothing is broken with the Lions right now, including their passing attack. Amon-Ra St. Brown has been typically effective, and rookie tight end Sam Laporta a borderline sensation. Veterans Josh Reynolds and Kalif Raymond are vastly underrated.
Yeah, it’d be nice to stretch the field more. But it should be noted Williams is not the same quality of receiver, at this stage, as the above-mentioned Lions’ regulars.
Williams needs room to grow. A few plays here and there. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is creative, and should be able to put Jamo into spots where he isn’t expected to make catches in tight windows yet.
Williams’ value still lies later in the season, after he has time to settle down, and when the Lions may need him because of injuries and/or improved competition.
Patience isn’t a courtesy often extended to first-round NFL Draft picks, and Williams has already become a source of consternation. The Lions would be smart to avoid temptation and take it slowly.
And fans should quell expectations.
It’s Jamo’s best chance to eventually succeed.