Report: Jameson Williams likely sidelined for remainder of Lions' preseason with hamstring injury

After suffering an injury at training camp practice on Wednesday, it appears the preseason is over for Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams. Williams has a hamstring injury, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, that will “likely” sideline him for the final two weeks of the preseason.

Williams appeared in just six games last season after tearing his ACL during his final season at Alabama. He ended up as a first round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.

But, this is not the first time Williams was hurt this summer. He also missed time earlier in training camp due to a leg issue.

Last year, Williams had one reception for 41 yards in six appearances to get himself acclimated with the NFL game. By missing so much time — including training camp — it hindered his development and transition from the college game.

Jameson Williams sidelined with hamstring injury

Williams was one of multiple NFL players suspended for violating the league’s gambling policy over the offseason. He opted not to appeal it though, and admitted he didn’t know the rules regarding betting during his first season in the league. As a result, he won’t be able to play until Week 7 against the Baltimore Ravens.

“I just left it alone. They gave me six games and we left it at that,” Williams said to a gaggle of reporters in May. “I’m just looking forward to coming back Week 7. Getting back with my team out there, playing the game.”

The new injury to the Lions wideout is terrible timing. Head coach Dan Campbel was hoping to get Williams “a ton” of reps during the preseason to help him catch up before his suspension. Campbell said game action is a critical part of his development.

“He needs that,” Campbell said, via ESPN’s Eric Woodyard. “As he does practice. But man, and I’m telling you, as with anybody, the more reps he gets, the more time on tests, the more consecutive practices and reps he can put together, he’ll just grow. I really believe that. And I do believe he wants it. I do believe he wants to get better. … So, he’ll grind through this and let’s see where we can go with it.”

Williams made his first significant contribution of the 2023 preseason against the New York Giants Friday.

After Lions wideout Maurice Alexander returned a punt for a 95-yard score, Detroit lined up at the two-yard line to attempt a two-point conversion. Quarterback Nate Sudfeld found Williams in the back of the end zone on a perfectly placed ball to cut the Giants’ lead to 13-11.

Nick Schultz contributed to this report.