Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams had a notable 2024 season, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards and ranking second in the NFL for yards per catch with an average of 17.3. Despite this impressive progress, Williams believes there is further room for improvement as he prepares for his fourth year, aiming to secure a lucrative new contract. His optimism is tied to the arrival of offensive coordinator John Morton, whose background as a wide receivers coach may unlock untapped potential for Williams going forward.
Although Williams made significant strides in 2024, the Lions experienced a decline in expected points added (EPA) on play-action vertical routes since Morton joined the offensive staff in 2022. Nevertheless, Williams expressed enthusiasm about Morton’s approach after a recent training camp practice, noting how the new coordinator’s coaching style stands out to him.
“He (Morton) attacking every aspect of the game,”
Williams said.
“He real aggressive. I just like that about him. I love about him the way he coaches, the way he calls plays, you know, how he attack the game and everything.”
—Jameson Williams, Wide Receiver
Williams embraces confidence and focus going into his fourth season
Williams’ demeanor reflects increased confidence and maturity, attributes expected with more experience in the league. He highlighted that his primary goal is to focus solely on football during his fourth training camp, emphasizing the importance of staying distraction-free.
“Year 4, training camp, no distractions. Just out here playing football,”
Williams stated.
“That’s my main focus, just playing football, getting out there, making plays, doing what I could do for my team.”
—Jameson Williams, Wide Receiver
Expanded route running under Morton could lead to another breakout year
When asked about his development as a receiver, Williams pointed to improvements in his route running, crediting Morton for giving him more opportunities to showcase his versatility. He described how the coordinator encourages him to run a wider variety of routes, which has helped him refine his cuts and angles.
“My route running. Coach Johnny Mo (Morton) is letting me run more routes,”
Williams explained.
“I knew I could run more routes and he’s putting me in position to run more routes. I’m getting better with cuts and angles and how to run this route and that route. I’d say I’m more polished in my route game.”
—Jameson Williams, Wide Receiver
Williams’ exceptional speed will continue to make him a deep-threat option, but last season he also demonstrated growth on crossing routes where his speed translated into sizable yardage after the catch. If Morton expands his involvement further while Williams adds experience and confidence, the wide receiver could have a significant breakout season in 2025.
Continuing Lions updates and insights
This article originally appeared on Side Lion Report and is shared here with permission.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What did Jameson Williams test positive for?
A. Jameson Williams was suspended for two games because he broke the PES rules. He was found positive for a “Stimulant, Diuretic, or Masking Agent.” This type of violation leads to the least severe punishment according to the policy made by the NFL and NFLPA together.
Q. Did Jameson Williams wear 18?
A. Williams is going back to the number he wore in college at Alabama. He didn’t take this chance last year and chose No. 9 after talking with Matthew Stafford, changing from No. 18, which he picked to honor Randy Moss and Calvin Johnson.