Lions Eyeing Future at WR Amid Uncertainty Around Jameson Williams
The Detroit Lions boast one of the league’s most potent aerial offenses, but with Jameson Williams nearing a key point in his rookie contract, the team’s leadership may already be planning for what’s next. According to WalterFootball, Detroit is predicted to select Oklahoma wide receiver Deion Burks in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft — a potential indication of a shift in the team’s long-term receiving plans.
Key Points:
- WalterFootball projects the Lions to draft Deion Burks in 2026.
- Burks, a Michigan native and former Purdue star, is known for his elite speed and playmaking.
- With Williams’ rookie deal nearing its end, Detroit could look to draft his eventual replacement.
- Last season, Detroit ranked 2nd in the NFL in passing yards per game (266.3).
Jameson Williams’ Future Still Up in the Air
To be clear, Jameson Williams isn’t on his way out just yet. He’s signed through 2025, with a fifth-year option in 2026. Still, the Lions are clearly thinking ahead.
Though Williams has shown flashes of big-play talent, injuries and inconsistency have kept him from truly breaking out. In three years, he’s posted 83 receptions for 1,396 yards and 10 touchdowns — respectable, but not what’s expected from a first-round pick.
Now that Amon-Ra St. Brown is secured with a long-term deal and playing like a true WR1, Detroit could be positioning itself for a future without Williams beyond 2026.
Deion Burks: A Potential New Weapon for Detroit
Analyst Walter Cherepinsky of WalterFootball sees Burks as a potential first-round target for the Lions in 2026. Burks, a speedy receiver out of Oklahoma, has the traits to make explosive plays and add depth to the Lions’ WR corps.
“The Lions could use another playmaker alongside their top two wideouts,” Cherepinsky wrote. “Burks may be undersized, but his ability to make things happen after the catch is undeniable.”
Originally from Belleville, Michigan, Burks began his college career at Purdue before transferring to Oklahoma in 2024. Despite injuries limiting him to five games, he recorded 31 receptions for 245 yards and 3 touchdowns. Scouts are intrigued by his speed, crisp route running, and ability to create yards after the catch. If he stays healthy, Burks could climb into first-round conversation.
A Dangerous Trio in the Making?
Picture this for 2026:
- Amon-Ra St. Brown, an elite technician and route-runner.
- Jameson Williams, a deep threat with breakaway speed.
- Deion Burks, a dynamic slot option with quickness and agility.
Even as a WR4, Burks could thrive in new offensive coordinator John Morton’s scheme, which emphasizes getting fast players in open space. If he develops, the Lions’ receiver group could go from underrated to elite.
Post-Ben Johnson Era Planning
It’s also worth noting that former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson — the architect of Detroit’s high-powered attack — is now the Bears’ head coach. John Morton takes over the offense, and the Lions are intent on maintaining their offensive momentum.
Bringing in someone like Burks isn’t just about replacing Williams — it’s about building sustained depth and explosiveness at the receiver position as contracts expire and injuries inevitably arise. Detroit seems to be preparing wisely for the future.
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