May is an exciting period for NFL players, as teams gear up for offseason programs. After reflecting on the previous season, the Detroit Lions will soon return to Michigan to kick off the bulk of their preparations. While new arrivals bring enthusiasm for fans, established players see this as a critical time to defend their positions heading into the next season.

This scenario isn’t unique to the Lions. Across the league, teams are starting their offseason routines this month. Although the real battles won’t heat up until training camp in July, the foundation for those competitions is being laid right now.

For several former Lions players, this month brings anxiety about their job security, and some may find themselves unemployed by June.

1. WR Isaiah Williams (Bengals)

Cincinnati’s wide receiver group is tough to crack unless you’re a star like Ja’Marr Chase or Tee Higgins. This challenge is even greater for fringe players such as Isaiah Williams.

Williams, who went undrafted out of Illinois, earned a spot on Detroit’s roster last year. Despite appearing in two games and recording two catches for six yards, he was released in November. The Bengals picked him up after punt returner Charlie Jones was injured.

Returning punts is a reliable way to stick around, and Williams made a decent impact with 11 returns for 93 yards. However, with Jones returning and players like Andrei Iosivas and Kendric Pryor ahead of him, Williams may find himself on the chopping block by month’s end.

2. C Ryan McCollum (Steelers)

The Steelers are aiming to rediscover their physical identity, which could put former Lions center Ryan McCollum at risk. An undrafted free agent from Texas A&M in 2021, McCollum initially joined the Texans but landed on Detroit’s active roster later that year. Despite re-signing for 2022, he was cut during training camp.

Since then, McCollum has managed to stay with Pittsburgh, though he has been waived or released three times. The addition of Lecitus Smith this offseason could put McCollum’s spot in jeopardy again.

Although it’s just a backup center role, the Steelers might prefer to let training camp determine the outcome. However, McCollum’s limited experience may lead Pittsburgh to explore alternatives or give Smith a chance to secure the job early.

3. DE Jonah Williams (Saints)

A veteran of five seasons, Jonah Williams made several stops last year, starting with the Vikings, then the Rams, and finally the Lions. His stint in Detroit was unimpressive, earning a poor grade of 38.2. Nonetheless, he secured a deal with the New Orleans Saints.

Williams is likely open to any opportunity, but the situation in New Orleans isn’t promising. With Chase Young and Cameron Jordan locked in as starters, and young talents like Isaiah Foskey and Fadil Diggs in the mix, Williams faces tough odds to make the final roster.

If he doesn’t impress during the offseason, Williams might find himself seeking another team as June approaches.