The Detroit Lions have released rookie wide receiver Isaiah Williams, who had been a standout during the preseason.

The team announced the move on Thursday, confirming that Williams was waived. No corresponding roster move was made, leaving an open spot on the Lions’ 53-man roster.

Williams, an undrafted free agent, was one of Detroit’s most highly coveted signings this offseason. The Lions gave him $225,000 in guarantees to join the team.

Early on, it seemed Williams might struggle to make the roster due to the team’s depth at the slot receiver position and the need for a more experienced player at the X receiver spot.

However, Williams impressed during the preseason, leading the team with 11 receptions and 123 yards. He also contributed with six punt returns for 71 yards in the Lions’ three preseason games.

Though he made the initial 53-man roster, Williams was mostly inactive for the first half of the 2024 season.

He appeared in just two games, but made an impact in his limited opportunities. In his NFL debut during Week 8 against the Tennessee Titans, Williams returned a kickoff for 36 yards.

The reason for Williams’ release remains unclear, but it’s likely tied to the Lions’ need to make room on the roster for players returning from injury. Detroit is evaluating Brodric Martin, Emmanuel Moseley, and Ifeatu Melifonwu, and once they are ready to play, the team will need to activate them to the 53-man roster.

Additionally, the Lions have already used all three practice squad elevations for tight end Shane Zylstra.

If they wish to play him this week, he will need to be added to the 53-man roster.

Releasing Williams puts him at risk of being claimed by another team. As one of the more notable undrafted free agents this year, there’s a good chance the Lions may not get him back.

However, if he clears waivers, there’s a possibility he could return to the Lions’ practice squad.