:Jameson Williams has caught the attention of several of the Detroit Lions’ new assistant coaches and staff members, especially his new position coach.
Scottie Montgomery, who has shifted from coaching running backs to leading the wide receivers, said Williams is already showing strong progress. After returning from time off, Montgomery noticed Williams was already back in the facility and putting in the work.
Coming off his first 1,000-yard season, Williams is earning praise for his progress in meetings and film study.
“I didn’t need to reach out to him. As soon as I accepted the role, he understood the expectations,” Montgomery said Tuesday in Allen Park. “He just came by to greet me, already aware of what had to be accomplished. And just two days ago … it was probably one of the best meetings I’ve seen from him.
It was a full offensive meeting, and the way he engaged—his questions, his understanding of the game—that’s exactly what we want to see, and it’s happening.
“If he continues progressing like this, he’s going to reach a place he’s truly happy with. We’re pleased with where he is now, but there’s still work ahead.”
Last season, Williams hauled in 58 receptions for 1,001 yards and seven scores, playing a personal-best 15 games. He finally showed the elite talent that made him a first-rounder, with his speed making him a deep-threat star.
At 23, Williams ranked second in the league with 17.3 yards per catch, just behind Colts wideout Alec Pierce. Notably, Pierce had 21 fewer receptions and targets than Williams.
Montgomery emphasized Williams’ steady progress. While stats matter, Montgomery is focused more on his mindset, and that’s showing positive signs too.
John Morton, Detroit’s new offensive coordinator, was on staff during Williams’ rookie year as he rehabbed from his ACL injury. But now, Morton says the situation has completely changed, and he’s very optimistic.
“Incredible. Just incredible,” Morton said. “When I arrived, he came straight to see me. We had a conversation—I laid out my expectations and vision—and he was incredible. Just incredible.
“His attention to detail in meetings is excellent. I’m fired up to watch him this year. It’s going to be his breakout season. I really can’t wait.”
Morton was about to say Williams might be the most explosive player he’s seen, then paused to include running back Jahmyr Gibbs in that discussion. It’s an exciting situation for a new play-caller.
“The explosiveness,” Morton said. “It reminds me of when I coached Reggie Bush.
“That kind of burst—both of them have it, and it’s exciting to see.”
Williams still has two seasons left on his rookie deal, as the team picked up his fifth-year option earlier this May. Despite offseason rumors, general manager Brad Holmes made it clear that moving him was never on the table.
“That idea was never considered. I have no clue where that story originated,” Holmes said during the draft. “Dan (Campbell) and I never even discussed that.
“He’s just getting started. I believe there’s still more upside. So keeping him around makes all the sense in the world.”
