Jameson Williams’ start in the NFL was anything but smooth, but after his electric breakout season in 2024, the Detroit Lions might want to act fast to secure their rising star wide receiver at a bargain price.
Detroit made a bold move to draft Williams 12th overall in 2022, trading up significantly despite his recovery from a torn ACL. That gamble didn’t pay immediate dividends—he only played six games his rookie year, then served a gambling-related suspension in 2023. But everything changed last season: Williams exploded for 58 catches, 1,001 yards, and seven touchdowns, becoming the Lions’ clear No. 2 option behind Amon-Ra St. Brown.
The Lions have already exercised Williams’ fifth-year option for 2026, guaranteeing him $15.5 million. But with receiver salaries skyrocketing, Detroit could strike a team-friendly deal now—before Williams builds on his breakout and commands even more money.
Looking at recent wide receiver deals, contracts like Khalil Shakir’s four years/$53 million or Jerry Jeudy’s three years/$52.5 million set the floor. Williams is younger than those players and has already topped 1,000 yards, giving him a strong case for a bigger payday.
Given his current rookie contract has two years left, a three-year extension worth around $20 million annually would give the Lions security through Williams’ prime, while letting the receiver cash in without waiting for free agency.
A likely deal could look like three years, $63 million with about $33 million guaranteed—keeping Williams locked in at a reasonable average and rewarding him for his huge 2024 season.
Locking up Williams now could be a win-win: the Lions get cost certainty on a rising star, and Williams gets security while still having a chance to hit free agency again before age 30.
Jameson Williams’ Next Contract: Can Lions Seal a Team-Friendly Bargain?
