The Detroit Lions are tied for first place in the NFC North with a 5-1 record following their thrilling 31-29 win over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.
They hope to continue their early season success when they face the Tennessee Titans in Week Eight and the Green Bay Packers, who are just a half-game behind at 5-2, in Week Nine.
Unfortunately for Detroit, they’ll be without wide receiver Jameson Williams for these next two games. The third-year player, who has already missed significant time in his career due to injury and suspension, has been suspended by the NFL for violating their performance-enhancing substances policy.
He had one catch for -4 yards in Detroit’s win over Minnesota.
Detroit Lions Wide Receiver Jameson Williams Responds, Says He’ll “Take It on the Chin” After 2-Game Suspension
After being drafted 12th overall by the Lions in 2022, Williams missed his first 11 games due to an ACL injury suffered in college. In the six games he did play at the end of that season, he made only one reception for 41 yards, but it was a touchdown.
In his second year, Williams faced a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s gambling policy. He ended up playing 12 games, making 24 catches for 354 yards and two touchdowns.
This season, Williams ranks second on the team in receiving yards (361) and touchdowns (three).
ESPN’s Eric Woodyard reported that Williams is upset about the suspension but says he has “no choice but to take it on the chin.”
“I’m in good spirits, just ready to get back with [my] brothers ASAP,” the third-year wide receiver said.
Detroit Lions Fans Call Out Jameson Williams on Social Media
While missing his rookie season’s first 11 games due to ACL recovery was understandable, Williams’ gambling suspension last year and the recent suspension for performance-enhancing substances are seen as inexcusable.
Lions fans voiced their frustrations on social media.
It hasn’t been disclosed what substances Williams used to warrant the suspension, but the fact that he’s not appealing indicates he knows he was in the wrong.
