By Moses Joshua 
Lions’ explosive receiver opens up about the pain of falling just short—and how that memory still fuels him
One Game Away: The Loss That Lingers
For Jameson Williams, the pain of the Detroit Lions’ 2024 NFC Championship loss to the San Francisco 49ers hasn’t dulled. While many fans still seethe over the most recent playoff exit against the Washington Commanders, the Lions’ wide receiver remains haunted by the heartbreak that came one step from the Super Bowl.
“I think people really don’t realize how bad it is until you get to that game where you’re one game away from the Super Bowl,” Williams explained. “That was the one that hurt us the most, what hurt me the most. I felt more hurt losing to San Francisco than I did (losing) to the (Washington) Commanders because it was just one game away, one play away.”
It wasn’t just a game—it was a shot at history. And for Williams and the rest of the Lions, that memory remains a powerful source of motivation as they prepare for another run in 2025.
Turning Pain into Purpose
Though the wounds are fresh, Williams insists the team isn’t dwelling on the past. Instead, they’re turning their bitter playoff experiences into fuel.
“We’ve got a chip on our shoulder,” he said. “Everybody remembers it, but we’re not dwelling on it. We got a long season ahead of us. We got big games this season (and have) kind of moved on from the past, but it’s still there for that little chip of fire we need to go forward.”
This mix of maturity and motivation is exactly what the Lions are banking on as they aim to build on their recent success and push deeper into the postseason.
A New Mindset, A New Season
Entering his fourth year, Williams is drawing attention for more than just his game-breaking speed. Both head coach Dan Campbell and new offensive coordinator John Morton have praised the receiver for his evolving mindset and work ethic. And according to Williams, it all started with a lesson passed down from his father.
“I’ve been installed into working hard as a kid with my pops,” he shared. “I always had the same mindset. Just go out and be the best (and) work the hardest. My dad always texts me like ‘I’ll outwork everybody no matter who it is, I’ll outwork everybody.’ That’s just my mentality.”
Now stepping confidently into a veteran role, Williams is ready to transform frustration into focus. “I guess going into year four, I got a little pep in my step. I’m becoming a vet, moving over from the rookie stage and I’m just ready to play more football and be more consistent for my team.”
All Eyes on the Lions
If Williams’ mindset is any indication, Detroit’s goals for 2025 won’t be about revenge—they’ll be about redemption. With health, hunger, and a chip on their collective shoulder, the Lions could finally be ready to finish what they started.
For Williams, it’s simple: the pain of being “one play away” is still there. But now, it’s pushing him—and his team—toward something bigger.