Lions Face Tough Decisions as WR Market Soars
The price of elite wide receivers continues to climb, and that’s putting the Detroit Lions in a tough spot when it comes to Jameson Williams. With recent extensions for the Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase ($161 million over four years) and Tee Higgins ($115 million over four years), the cost of retaining a top wideout is skyrocketing.
Williams, entering his third season, is now eligible for his fifth-year option. If the Lions choose to extend him, they could be looking at a contract worth at least what Higgins is making—around $28.75 million per year—or risk waiting and seeing the market push that number even higher.
Detroit has already invested heavily in Amon-Ra St. Brown, who inked a four-year, $120 million deal. With other young stars like Brian Branch, Sam LaPorta, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Jack Campbell also due for extensions soon, GM Brad Holmes will have to decide how much cap space can be dedicated to receivers.
One option could be following Cincinnati’s approach with Higgins—placing the franchise tag on Williams for 2027. However, the longer Detroit waits, the more expensive it could get, with top WR salaries potentially exceeding $45 million annually in the coming years.
The Lions have built a strong, young core, but tough financial decisions are on the horizon.
Bengals’ Big Paydays for Higgins & Chase Could Shake Up Lions’ Plans
