Jameson Williams Hints at Possible Departure; Here Are Teams That Could Target Him

Around the league, there’s increasing talk that Detroit might deal Williams, a former first-round selection nearing the end of his rookie contract. A key deadline looms—by May 1, the Lions must decide whether to exercise his fifth-year option. That decision could be influencing recent trade chatter. Adding more fuel to the fire, Williams recently shared a cryptic message on social media, stating, “Stay sucka free,” which some are interpreting as a sign of tension with the organization.

Williams’ 2024 campaign was his best yet, with personal bests in receptions (58), yards (1,001), and touchdowns (7), while also posting a staggering 17.3 yards per catch. That kind of production has boosted his value considerably, and if Detroit does put him on the trade block, the return should be solid.

If the Lions decide to move him, here are five teams that could be a logical fit:

Chicago Bears

Despite the challenge of trading within the NFC North, Chicago would be a natural landing spot. Bears head coach Ben Johnson previously served as Williams’ offensive coordinator in Detroit and understands how to maximize his skill set. Although Chicago brought in Olamide Zaccheaus during free agency, the Bears still need additional targets to help support quarterback Caleb Williams heading into his sophomore season.

Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders are actively looking to strengthen their receiving corps. With Pete Carroll now leading the team and Geno Smith acquired to take over at quarterback, adding a dynamic receiver like Williams could jumpstart their offensive rebuild. Pairing him with a potential top draft pick like running back Ashton Jeanty would be a strong foundation for a more potent attack.

Dallas Cowboys

Some projections have Dallas targeting Texas standout Matthew Golden in the draft, but landing Williams would allow the Cowboys to shift their focus elsewhere—perhaps addressing needs at cornerback or the offensive line. Williams could play a similar role to the one he had in Detroit alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown, this time complementing CeeDee Lamb.

New Orleans Saints

The Saints are another franchise with a clear need at wide receiver. Numerous mock drafts link them to wideouts early in the first round, but acquiring Williams would open the door to pursuing a different kind of impact player. If quarterback Shedeur Sanders is available when they pick at No. 9, they might be tempted to grab him instead.

Arizona Cardinals

While Marvin Harrison Jr. showed promise as a rookie, his effectiveness was limited by a lack of support in the receiving game outside of tight end Trey McBride. Bringing in Williams would not only create space for Harrison and McBride, but could also elevate Kyler Murray’s performance as he continues to chase elite status among NFL quarterbacks.