Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell stated that the team is ready to play without receiver Jameson Williams.
“I’m not really supposed to talk about it,” Campbell mentioned on Wednesday.
Williams is reportedly facing a two-game suspension for breaking the league’s performance-enhancing substance rules, according to ESPN. “No choice but to take it on the chin,” Williams told ESPN.
The Lions (5-1) will face Tennessee (1-5) at home on Sunday and then head to play division rival Green Bay on November 3.
Williams has been having a strong season, following a four-game suspension last year for violating the NFL’s gambling rules.
Campbell didn’t specify when the team learned about Williams’ reported violation or when he might be able to appeal the decision. Williams practiced with the team on Wednesday.
“He’s going to be here,” Campbell said. “He’s helping until they come through with whatever’s going to happen.”
This season, Williams has made 17 catches for 361 yards and three touchdowns. Last year, he had 24 receptions for 354 yards and two touchdowns in 12 games. He returned from knee surgery two years ago and played six games, scoring on a 41-yard touchdown.
Williams, 23, is the first player in franchise history to score his first six receiving touchdowns from 30 yards or more.
The Lions traded up to select the former Alabama star with the No. 12 pick in the 2022 draft and have been patient with his development. The team expected he would miss a lot of his rookie year due to a knee injury and has publicly supported him during last year’s suspension and this week’s reported punishment.
Campbell expressed confidence that Williams would bounce back from last year’s suspension and demonstrate his resilience again this season.
