Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell didn’t mince words when addressing Jameson Williams after an early-game penalty against the Chicago Bears.

Williams, one of the Lions’ standout players, was flagged for a 15-yard taunting penalty following an exchange with Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson after a sideline catch.

Frustrated with the poorly timed penalty, Campbell admitted he needed to deliver some tough love to his star receiver.

Speaking to 97.1 The Ticket, Campbell said, “He needed an ass-chewing, plain and simple.”

Though the comment was made in the heat of the moment, Campbell emphasized the importance of keeping Williams focused and accountable.

“You can’t just let it slide,” Campbell told reporters after the Lions’ 34-17 win.

“He knew, so we dealt with it, and then he went back out there. And he was fine.

That’s what I love about him. He doesn’t let it derail him—he gets it, moves on, and keeps playing hard.”

Campbell’s reaction underscores his leadership style—demanding accountability but encouraging resilience. Williams, for his part, took the criticism in stride and stayed focused.

His calm response and solid performance after the penalty reflected his growth as a player.

Campbell praised Williams’ ability to bounce back, saying, “It’s great. I really like where his mindset is right now.”

The incident didn’t hinder Williams’ contributions, as he continued to make crucial plays throughout the game.

His ability to respond positively to Campbell’s tough coaching shows the rising confidence within the Lions’ roster.

With Campbell’s demanding yet supportive approach, players like Williams are proving they can thrive under pressure and grow stronger as the team pushes for the NFC’s top seed.