Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams issued an apology this week after his touchdown celebration in the loss to the Philadelphia Eagles resulted in a crucial penalty.
Williams turned a 40-yard crossing route into the Lions’ only touchdown of the game, but his celebration — jumping onto the goal post and hugging it — drew a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct flag. The penalty pushed Jake Bates’ extra-point attempt back from 33 yards to 48 yards, and the kick sailed wide right, keeping the score tied.
Williams said he had no idea the celebration was illegal until he got to the sideline.
“I apologized to Jake, Jack, Coach Campbell — everybody,” Williams said. “They told me it wasn’t my fault, but I felt like it was in the moment. We’ve just got to be smarter.”
Head coach Dan Campbell praised the play but sent a clear message:
“Hell of a play. Don’t do that again.”
Wide receivers coach Scottie Montgomery admitted he was frustrated in the moment but said the incident serves as a valuable learning lesson for Williams and the rest of the team about managing emotions.
Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp added that his unit must convert regardless of the situation:
“If they call for a field goal, we go out there and make it. That’s our job.”
Williams said he isn’t worried about penalties becoming a pattern, emphasizing he can control his celebrations moving forward.
