What It Means:

Williams seems close to making his NFL debut, but the 4-7 Lions have little reason to rush their 2022 first-round pick onto the field. The team previously expressed that they will take their time bringing the explosive playmaker up to speed, and they have stayed true to that plan so far this season.

Williams struggled to find targets playing alongside fellow first-rounders like Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson while at Ohio State, but earned first-round draft capital nonetheless after transferring to Alabama for his junior year. He led the Crimson Tide in all receiving metrics by catching 79 passes for 1,572 yards and 15 touchdowns, and even cashed in for 2 more touchdowns on his 10 kick returns. He'll have a chance to make an immediate impact when he is ready to suit up for the Lions.