By Moses Joshua 
With contract extensions looming and limited depth, Detroit eyes youthful additions to its WR room
Future-Proofing the Offense
As the 2025 NFL Draft inches closer, the Detroit Lions find themselves at a crossroads—balancing future cap flexibility with present roster needs. One topic generating buzz is the possibility of trading wide receiver Jameson Williams. While the idea may seem premature or even counterintuitive, the rationale is simple: financial sustainability.
With young stars like Aidan Hutchinson, Jahmyr Gibbs, Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, Sam LaPorta—and Williams himself—due for contract extensions in the coming seasons, Detroit faces an inevitable financial crunch. “Retaining all those players is next to impossible,” one league source noted. Trading a valuable asset like Williams before his contract expires could be a forward-thinking strategy to recoup draft capital or plug other roster gaps.
Holmes and Campbell Emphasize WR Depth
Even if Williams stays, the front office is clearly interested in bolstering the wide receiver room. At the NFL Owners Meetings, head coach Dan Campbell stressed the value of adding fresh competition:
“We would love to bring in more competition, particularly some youth. That would help, and let them all mix it up.”
General Manager Brad Holmes echoed that sentiment just days ago, noting:
“You really can’t ever have enough of them. We’re very happy with the guys that we have, but it’d be great to get younger.”
The message is loud and clear: Detroit wants depth, versatility, and future-ready talent at receiver.
Draft Options May Come in Later Rounds
Despite the clear need, don’t expect the Lions to rush for a receiver in Round 1. Unlike last year’s draft, which saw five wideouts selected in the first round, 2025’s WR class is relatively thin at the top. With only a few names projected to go early, Detroit may take a patient approach, aiming for value in Rounds 3-7 or even among undrafted free agents.
The Lions’ current depth is razor-thin behind Amon-Ra St. Brown. Kalif Raymond and Tim Patrick are reliable veterans, but both are 30 or older, raising long-term concerns. Injecting youth into the group now allows Detroit to build depth without the pressure of immediate production.
The Bottom Line
Whether or not a trade involving Jameson Williams materializes, the Lions are making it clear: the wide receiver room needs a refresh. Holmes and Campbell are staying proactive, seeking competition and long-term solutions. With the draft just around the corner, fans won’t have to wait long to see how Detroit addresses one of its most quietly pressing needs.