Through five games this year, Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams has shown he’s an important piece of the offense despite his modest statistical output.
Williams, who inked a three-year, $83 million deal right before the season opener, has hauled in only 11 of his 21 targets for 223 yards and one touchdown.
Based on comments from the offseason and recent statements by offensive coordinator John Morton, many analysts, fans, and even bettors believed Williams would have a more prominent role in Detroit’s offensive attack.
And he does — just not in the way most might assume, something coach Dan Campbell emphasized when speaking with reporters Monday.
“Jamo didn’t have the huge numbers in catches or targets, but his blocking in the run game was phenomenal. He was physical all day, relentless. He found another way to help us get it done.”
In Detroit’s 37-24 Week 5 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, Williams’ lone reception was a nine-yard catch from Jared Goff in the first half.
The Bengals’ secondary kept tight coverage on the speedy wideout, frequently rolling multiple defenders his direction to prevent big plays downfield.
Campbell noted that the defensive attention Williams drew helped open up room for Goff to connect with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta underneath.
“Well, a lot of eyes are on him whenever he’s on the field,” Campbell said. “Defenses don’t want him beating them deep. So, you see a lot of deep shells or two-high looks over him. It’s tough — receivers want to make plays and get targets.
“But he contributed in other ways and didn’t let it bother him. He helped other guys get open, he helped our backs, and he did it with effort and toughness. He’s a total team player, and we love that about him.”
Because Williams drew so much defensive focus, Goff dissected the Bengals’ coverage, completing eight passes to St. Brown for 100 yards and five to LaPorta for 92 yards and his first touchdown of the season.
After a Week 4 showing against Cleveland where he caught just two of eight targets for 40 yards, many expected a bounce-back performance versus Cincinnati.
Though that didn’t happen statistically, Williams shared his mindset about contributing in other ways, like blocking, when he’s not the primary target.
“I can’t be out there sulking during games, because the next play might come my way, and I won’t be ready,” Williams said. “I just keep a clear head while I’m out there. Not worried about the stats — I’m focused on getting the win.”
