At the NFL league meetings in late March, Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes confirmed that wide receiver Jameson Williams would have his fifth-year option exercised. However, when asked about a possible contract extension for Williams—given other deals on the horizon—Holmes was far less certain.

“When it comes to extensions, there’s a number we hope to complete, but financially it’s hard to say,” Holmes said. “Wide receivers cost a lot. But that’s a good problem to have, in a way.”

To Williams’ credit, he made major progress in 2024. He matured as a wideout, became more well-rounded, and recorded over 1,000 receiving yards for the first time. Still, there were some issues—a PED suspension, a firearm incident where he wasn’t charged, and several fines for excessive touchdown celebrations. Getting rid of that “extra stuff” will be key to earning the long-term deal he’s aiming for.

In the lead-up to April’s draft, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer mentioned Williams as a trade candidate in two separate stories. Though no trade came about, Holmes later stated that moving Williams was never seriously considered.

This offseason, excitement around Williams has been intense. Many expect him to take another big leap forward. With his fifth-year option picked up, Detroit now has time to evaluate whether he’s part of the team’s long-term vision—or if he’ll boost his trade value with another strong season.

The Athletic recently asked their NFL beat writers to pick one player contract per team to watch. For Lions reporter Colton Pouncy, Williams was the obvious choice, and he broke down the circumstances well.

Having two highly-paid receivers isn’t unheard of. But Holmes has already admitted that a large deal for Williams could influence roster decisions. He also noted that following the Bengals’ contract strategy wouldn’t be ideal.

Pouncy didn’t claim that a Williams trade is coming or even likely. But he did acknowledge that the idea is still floating around, and it could gain traction next offseason if extension talks break down.