After a season marked by career milestones — along with some personal struggles — Jameson Williams can finally relax about one particular situation that weighed on him.
As reported by Dave Birkett from the Detroit Free Press, a spokesperson for the league indicated that the Lions wide receiver will not receive disciplinary measures due to a traffic stop in Detroit, where Williams had an unlicensed firearm during the season. The representative stated that the issue is regarded as “resolved.”
On October 8, Williams was riding in a car that was stopped by the police in Detroit. His sibling, who was behind the wheel, told officers that there were two firearms in the vehicle.
Of the two firearms, one was Williams’ brother’s and was positioned in the back seat, whereas the other was Williams’ and was found beneath the passenger seat. When stopped, Williams lacked a concealed carry permit unlike his brother.
Williams was cuffed during the halt and set free without any charges. A police report was not submitted. The occurrence led to an internal affairs probe, and a warrant was issued for Williams’ apprehension.
In November, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy’s office determined that Williams would not be charged.
The NFL’s ruling represents positive news for Williams, who experienced a challenging 2024 season plagued by multiple fines for conduct during games and a two-game suspension for breaching the league’s performance-enhancing substance regulations.
Even with the violations, one individual who publicly supported Williams was Lions head coach Dan Campbell.
Following Williams’ third season, where he achieved a career-best with 58 catches for 1,001 yards and seven touchdowns, Campbell commented on the receiver’s attempts to improve his performance.
“I take great pride in him, man.” He’s one of those guys—wow, I really like that kid. He has faced many challenges, and clearly, some of it is his responsibility. “And he is aware of that,” Campbell remarked in January. “That’s what I value about him.” He needed a minute to understand and accept what we were doing. He may be somewhat stubborn, and that’s also a reason you adore him. That’s the reason I adore him. However, he has gained knowledge throughout his journey, and he is evolving.
“To be frank, the greatest thing he accomplished was this: When he eventually shed the armor and connected with his teammates, he integrated into the team.” That occurred the previous year. As last year drew to a close, it became increasingly noticeable. It has simply improved continuously. With each of these moments, he has evolved. He’s gaining knowledge from it. And I truly adore his current situation—I genuinely do. “I take pride in him.”
According to the league’s rules on conduct, players may face suspension for violations such as “unlawful possession of a firearm or other weapons (including explosives, toxic materials, etc.), or having a firearm or another weapon in any work environment.” Moreover, a conviction for a crime is not necessary for league sanctions.