:Since 2022, the Detroit Lions have experienced a dramatic resurgence, but they’ve fallen just shy of reaching the Super Bowl due to a couple of heartbreaking playoff losses.

In 2024, the team made it to the NFC Championship after two strong postseason victories, only to give up a halftime lead against the San Francisco 49ers. The previous year, Detroit secured home field advantage and a first-round bye despite multiple injuries, but were unexpectedly knocked out by the Washington Commanders.

Regardless of which defeat fans look back on, both are equally frustrating. However, the more recent loss to Washington may sting more for many due to the raised hopes. For Jameson Williams, though, a different game sticks in his memory. The loss to San Francisco still hits the hardest.

“I don’t think people understand how painful it is until you’re right there—one win away from the Super Bowl,” Williams said. “That one stung the most. Losing to San Francisco hit me harder than losing to Washington because it was so close—just a play or two away.”

According to Williams, those lingering emotions are being stored and used to inspire the Lions. He believes the team is channeling all that frustration and saving it to ignite them at key moments throughout the season.

“We’ve got something to prove. Everyone remembers those games, but we’re not stuck in the past. We’ve got a full season ahead and a lot of big matchups. We’ve moved on, kind of, but that fire’s still there to push us forward when we need it.”

Williams doesn’t appear to need much extra motivation, especially given how strong he looks heading into the season.

As the 2025 campaign nears, Williams is drawing attention for his performance. Offensive coordinator John Morton has been impressed, and head coach Dan Campbell remains firmly supportive. Still, Williams remains focused and grounded in his preparation.

“My dad raised me to work hard from a young age. That’s always been my mindset—be the best, outwork everyone,” Williams said. “He still texts me that. Now going into year four, I feel like a vet. I’ve moved past the rookie stage, and I just want to be consistent and help my team win.”

A driven, healthy Williams could play a major role in pushing Detroit past their recent playoff heartbreak. If he can keep using that past pain as fuel, the Lions might finally be ready to overcome those setbacks.