Detroit Lions WR Jameson Williams left the team’s Week 17 contest against the Dallas Cowboys shortly after converting on a chunk play down the field. What is his status moving forward? Here’s what we know.
Latest Jameson Williams Injury Update
Early in the fourth quarter of the Lions’ Week 17 contest against the Dallas Cowboys, Williams beat potential All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland on a deep post for a 63-yard completion that would help lead to a field goal.
Jameson Williams made a sensational play here but could not make it back in afterwards and is now being examined in the locker room. pic.twitter.com/1EWFHco3XP
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) December 31, 2023
Williams’ helmet came off at the conclusion of the play, but he appeared to be fine in the initial aftermath, celebrating the gain.
However, shortly after, Williams was unable to come back into the game and ended up leaving to head to the locker room for further evaluation.
Later, it was revealed that Williams returned to the sideline and was sent to the blue medical tent for additional observations.
According to Detroit Lions PR, Williams is officially listed as questionable to return with an ankle injury.
The Lions traded up to select Williams in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. An injury prevented him from gaining traction in his rookie season, and a suspension in 2023 delayed his introduction to the field.
MORE: Detroit Lions Depth Chart
Since entering the mix for the Lions, however, Williams has become a valuable part of the WR rotation, using his speed to generate big plays, as well as his tenacity to pave open lanes outside the numbers as a blocker.
Heading into Week 17, Williams had amassed 22 catches for 285 yards and two scores, as well as two carries for 23 yards and an additional score.
Fantasy Impact of Williams’ Injury
Williams has pretty much been a splash-play-or-bust asset all season. He’s definitely improved over the season and just made arguably his most impressive grab of the season before he was forced from the game.
Given that Williams still plays somewhat sparingly, the Lions’ offense won’t really change from a fantasy perspective; they just won’t have Williams anymore. His absence wouldn’t suddenly make Josh Reynolds or Kalif Raymond relevant. The passing game will continue to funnel through Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta.
— PFN Fantasy Analyst Jason Katz