The Jets need a weapon to pair with star receiver Garrett Wilson on offense. And a weapon who new coach Aaron Glenn knows very well might be available via a trade.
Sports Illustrated reported this week that Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams might be available via a trade before Detroit decides on his fifth-year contract option on May 1.
SI’s Albert Breer wrote that “some in NFL circles believe Williams could be traded” so it’s not definitive. But it’s a possibility, one that could make a lot of sense for the Jets who have little pass-catching talent on the roster outside of Wilson – the No. 10 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft had more catches and yards in 2024 than the rest of the receivers on the roster combined.
Jets general manager Darren Mougey made it clear this week he’ll pick up the fifth-year options on Wilson and the Jets’ other two 2022 first round picks, cornerback Sauce Gardner and edge rusher Jermaine Johnson.
Adding Williams would give the Jets another key player from that draft; he was picked No. 12 overall by the Lions. The former Alabama star struggled to make much of an impact his first two seasons, dealing with injuries and two suspensions: in 2023 he violated the NFL’s gambling policy and in 2024 he violated the league’s policy on performance enhancing substances.
Williams had just 25 catches for 395 yards and three touchdowns his first two seasons, but broke out in 2024 with 58 catches for 1,001 yards and seven touchdowns. His speed is a massive asset and the Jets new coaching staff knows Willams well, Glenn and offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand were both on the Lions staff throughout Williams’ career. And he’d be a game changing weapon for the offense with his ability to get open, and he just celebrated his 24th birthday making him younger than any of the Jets’ first round 2022 picks.
Earlier this month, Lions general manager Brad Holmes said he would likely exercise Williams’ fifth-year option, but obviously that leaves the door open to not picking up the option.
Williams appeared to be less than thrilled about the trade rumors, posting on his Instagram story this week: “loyalty b4 any n everything.”