By Moses Joshua 
Detroit Faces a Major Decision on Its Breakout Wide Receiver
The Detroit Lions’ investment in Jameson Williams is beginning to pay off in a big way. After a slow start to his NFL career, the former Alabama standout delivered a breakout 2024 season, cementing himself as a key offensive weapon. Now, the Lions must decide how to secure his future, with the official price tag for his 2026 season revealed.
Williams’ Rise to Stardom
The Lions traded up to select Williams with the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, betting on his elite speed and playmaking ability. However, injuries and limited playing time in his first two seasons resulted in modest production—just 25 catches for 395 yards and three touchdowns over 18 regular-season games.
That all changed in 2024. Williams erupted for 58 receptions, 1,001 yards, and seven touchdowns, becoming a dynamic threat in Detroit’s offense. He also showcased his versatility, adding 11 rushing attempts for 61 yards and another score. His electrifying performances in the postseason, including a 61-yard touchdown run against Washington, further solidified his value.
The Fifth-Year Option: A $15.493 Million Decision
Williams is currently playing on his four-year, $17.462 million rookie contract, which runs through the 2025 season. To keep him beyond that, Detroit has three options:
- Negotiate a long-term extension before 2026
- Use the franchise tag next offseason
- Exercise his fifth-year option
With the NFL announcing a record $279.2 million salary cap for 2025, teams now have clarity on contract valuations. If the Lions choose to exercise Williams’ fifth-year option before the May 1 deadline, he will be guaranteed $15.493 million for the 2026 season.
Where Williams Stands Among His Draft Class
The fifth-year option value is based on performance tiers:
- Top Tier: Players with two Pro Bowl selections on the original ballot.
- Second Tier: Players with one Pro Bowl selection.
- Third Tier: Players meeting certain playing-time thresholds (75% of snaps in two seasons or 50% in three seasons).
- Fourth Tier: Players who don’t meet Pro Bowl or playing-time standards.
Williams falls into the fourth and most affordable tier, making his $15.493 million price tag a relative bargain given his recent production.
Lions’ Next Move: Locking in a Future Star?
With Williams proving he can be a difference-maker, Detroit must weigh its options carefully. The fifth-year option provides short-term security but could cost more in the long run if his market value rises. A contract extension, on the other hand, could lock him in at a potentially team-friendly rate before his price soars.
Regardless of their decision, one thing is clear: Jameson Williams has become a core piece of the Lions’ Super Bowl aspirations, and Detroit isn’t likely to let him go anytime soon.