There is one remaining piece of the Detroit Lions' offense that has yet to get going, and it is Jameson Williams. The receiver has already had two drops on the season after having only three all of last year, and has managed only two catches in each of his past three games. No question, Williams isn't living up to the $83 million extension he signed before Week 1. This should set him up with the perfect potential breakout game in Week 5 against the Cincinnati Bengals.
There might not be a better "get-right game" for a struggling offensive player than facing a Bengals defense that has given up 76 points over the last two weeks to Bo Nix and Carson Wentz. Neither quarterback has been lighting the world on fire this season, but they quickly found a rhythm against Cincinnati, and their speedy targets made big plays. Marvin Mims and Troy Franklin both had at least one reception over 20 yards, which speaks to the Bengals' inability to keep a wrap on the passing attack.
Struggling Lions WR Jameson Williams Handed Perfect Breakout Opportunity
It is hard to script a better moment for the struggling Williams to be set up for a breakout performance. While the rest of Detroit's offense is rolling, you want the speed option to have a few more touches and big plays as the team moves into the stretch of the season. This goes beyond wanting a recent signing to work out in the Lions' favor, but understanding the value Williams brings to this offense moving forward.
Defenses forced to respect his speed and ability to beat you over the top are going to play far differently than if they were primarily scheming to slow down the rushing attack and Amon-Ra St. Brown. So much of what Williams brought a season ago as a vertical passing threat was what set the table for Detroit's offense to enjoy a breakout season. One that was defined by the ability to beat you deep or nickel and dime you all the way down the field.
Williams is the needed balance for this mindset, and now he will be presented with the perfect chance to put his season back on track. Nothing boosts your confidence quite like facing a Cincy defense that has quickly established itself as one of the league's worst. Now, Williams needs to take advantage of the opportunity at his doorstep.
For offensive coordinator John Morton, the ideal plan isn't just to get Williams a chance to break deep plays, but to create early touches. Whether it is a screen or a simple slant, getting a pass catcher involved early only builds the confidence of any player, let alone one who is vital to your championship hopes. All of this reinforces the fact that this is the week Williams must wake up and remind the Lions and the rest of the league of his potential.