Lions, WR Jameson Williams reached agreement on a three-year extension worth up to $83 million

Detroit Lions wideout Jameson Williams has secured his future in Motown, agreeing to a three-year extension worth up to $83 million, sources told ESPN on Saturday.

The deal, which came less than a day before Detroit’s season opener against Green Bay, averages out to $27.7 million annually, slotting Williams 13th among NFL receivers. The news was first reported by Jordan Schultz. For comparison, fellow Lions star Amon-Ra St. Brown inked a four-year, $120 million pact last offseason that pays him $30 million per year.

While Williams’ contract is done and dusted, the Lions are still working on securing another cornerstone. Talks with Pro Bowl pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson remain positive, but insiders say an agreement isn’t expected before kickoff.

At 24, Williams is fresh off his first 1,000-yard campaign and was heading into the final year of his rookie deal before landing his new extension. Now, with Amon-Ra St. Brown opposite him and John Morton steering the offense, Williams is primed for an even larger role.

After two years slowed by injuries and short suspensions, 2024 marked his true breakout. In 15 appearances, the speedster hauled in 58 receptions for 1,001 yards and seven scores, proving himself as more than just a big-play threat.

Detroit made a bold move back in 2022, trading up 20 spots to grab Williams with the 12th overall pick out of Alabama, and that gamble is paying off. His 2024 season showcased his versatility — not only as a deep-ball menace with seven receiving touchdowns but also as a gadget option, adding 61 rushing yards and a rushing score to his résumé. The Lions believe last season was just the beginning of what Williams can bring to their attack.

For Williams, the extension is validation of his growth. He said this offseason has been about evolving into a more versatile receiver, something he's eager to show as Detroit looks to build on last year's success.

"As you come in, I felt like I was getting used in certain ways, but now, it's opening up the doors for coaches to use me in different ways," Williams said during Thursday's practice. "So it's a lot more ways I'm being used and I just locked in on everything."