The Detroit Lions were given little love heading into the 2025season. Picking Micah Parsons and the Green Bay Packers or Ben Johnson's Chicago Bears was far more enticing than the predictable answer of choosing the best roster.
Pundits cited Detroit's changing coordinators or the offensive line changes that include the retirement of Frank Ragnow. In truth, the Lions are simply the boring and correct answer, and Saturday's late extension helped show exactly why.
NFL insider Jordan Schultz broke the news that Detroit had reached an agreement on a new contract with Jameson Williams. The speedy receiver came on strong at the end of 2024 and was getting more and more expensive with each passing game. With this in mind, it made sense to go ahead and get a deal done based on the expectations of the season to come. Save a bit of money in the long run and hand Williams instant stability.
Lions Deliever Clear Message to the League with Last Minute Extension for Jameson Williams
Signing Williams hours before Detroit's season begins served as a chance to remind the league of how much of Detroit's core is already under lock. The Lions' front office has done an incredible job signing young pieces early on and keeping its championship window open long after the 2025 season.
As long as Jared Goff continues to play at his current level, Detroit is going to be in the mix of top NFC contenders.
Williams' deal is for three years and $83 million in a contract that is going to age incredibly well. The Lions know that the speedy receiver is about to enjoy an incredible season and are content paying extra now in favor of saving money down the road. It is a savvy move that is typical of a great front office. Now, all of the team's top offensive stars are paid, and the Lions can sit back and focus on chasing their elusive first Super Bowl victory.
For Williams, this is an incredible deal that gives you injury security and guaranteed money. The receiver no longer has to wonder if the franchise is going to make room to pay what he has earned while already paying Amon-Ra St. Brown. All the contract issues are now removed for your primary players, and you can go out and focus on what matters most. A great move for all sides as the Lions get ready to face a division rival.
That is another small piece of this, with Green Bay taking most of the league's attention over the last week after landing Parsons in a blockbuster deal. Detroit is no longer the fun or trendy pick in the NFC North. This extension serves as a reminder of why the franchise cannot be overlooked and how many established players are already locked up on long-term deals.
No question, this is a huge win for the Lions and an exciting development for Williams, who appeared to be another season away from a potential extension. An incredible move for an organization that has heard all of the noise and is poised for a Week 1 message.