Coming off a stellar 2024 campaign that saw them secure a 15-2 record and clinch the NFC’s top playoff spot, the Detroit Lions are aiming to build on that momentum — and wide receiver Jameson Williams is expected to play a major role once again. After reaching the 1,000-yard mark for the first time in his NFL career, Williams is entering the new season with a fresh look.
On Thursday, the team revealed that Williams will be switching to jersey No. 1, a number he famously wore during his college days at Alabama. This move is part of a broader set of jersey number changes among the Lions’ roster.
He’s not alone in making the switch — fellow Alabama alumni Jahmyr Gibbs and Terrion Arnold are also opting for new numbers, with Gibbs taking No. 0 and Arnold choosing No. 6.
Williams has proven to be a dynamic asset for head coach Dan Campbell’s offense, thanks to his speed and ability to stretch the field. Lining up alongside other offensive standouts like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, and David Montgomery, he adds another explosive layer to one of the league’s most potent attacks.
The No. 1 jersey is growing in popularity among top-tier receivers, with players like Ja’Marr Chase of the Bengals also embracing the single-digit trend after the NFL loosened its uniform number restrictions in 2021. Prior to that rule change, wide receivers were limited to numbers in the 10-19 and 80-89 range. The updated guidelines now allow them to wear digits between 0-49 and 80-89.
Now reunited with the number he wore in college, Williams hopes to channel the success he had at Alabama into another standout year in Detroit — one that could bring the Lions even closer to a Super Bowl appearance.
