The Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, John Morton, has acknowledged his shortcomings in effectively utilizing wide receiver Jameson Williams within the team’s offense. Williams himself owned up to an uninspired showing in the Lions’ 24-9 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on October 20. In fact, it was the first time this season that he did not have a catch. Morton said he felt bad for not getting Williams more involved in the game plan. He has a sinking feeling any time defenses begin to double team him and Amon-Ra St. Brown, thinking he’s failing both of their reps.
Williams has put together a fairly inconsistent season up to this point, racking up 17 catches for 289 yards and two scores. He’s gone over 45 receiving yards in just two of the games so far. The Lions’ coaching staff clearly has its finger on the pulse of mid-game adjustments. They are working on getting Williams more involved, particularly in clutch situations on third down. After the team’s bye week, Morton sat down privately with Williams. They focused on opportunities they missed and talked through ways to improve their chemistry on the court.
“I looked at everything, and I failed him. That’s what I told him,” – John Morton
Morton and Williams spoke to the value of creative playcalling. They think that’s going to enable the speedy Williams to find open space and receive an increased number of targets from quarterback Jared Goff. In their most recent game against Tampa Bay, Goff only targeted Williams twice. His lack of meaningful involvement raised alarm as to Williams’ place in the Bengals’ offense. In response to these challenges, Morton made clear his intention to build out Williams’ role.
“It’s not like we aren’t going to try to target him. So that was the biggest thing,” – John Morton
Also, the Lions have made a significant investment in Williams. In September 2024, they extended him for three years, up to $83 million. The franchise definitely seems to see him as the key piece to their new offensive scheme going forward. Even with all eyes from rival defenses on him now, Williams is looking forward to what he can bring this season. Once he said, “My time gon’ come,” showing the player-centric mindset but a willingness to put the team first.
Williams has topped 45 yards just twice this year. He’s hungry for the opportunity to get loose and show what he can do! Goff recognized Williams’ explosive abilities and acknowledged the need to keep him involved in various ways throughout the game.
“But of course, yeah, we’d love to get him involved more, get him to rock in a million different ways,” – Jared Goff
As the Lions prepare for their upcoming games, the coaching staff’s commitment to adjusting their approach will be vital for enhancing Williams’ contributions on the field. Furla and Edwards endeavor to build a deeper relationship between Goff and Williams. Simultaneously, they ensure each player is able to capitalize on or counteract defensive schemes designed to take away what makes them special.
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