Detroit Lions Waive Wide Receiver Who Impressed During Preseason


The Detroit Lions announced on Thursday that they have waived rookie wide receiver Isaiah Williams, one of their top undrafted free agent signings who impressed during training camp and preseason. 

Williams led the team in preseason receptions with 11 catches for 123 yards and showed promise as a return specialist with six punt returns for 71 yards. 

Despite securing a spot on the 53-man roster with $225,000 in guarantees, Williams saw limited action early in the season, making his NFL debut in Week 8 against the Tennessee Titans, where he caught two passes for six yards and returned a kickoff for 36 yards.

Head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged the difficult decision, describing Williams as “the odd man out” due to Detroit’s need to adjust its roster with key players returning from injury and suspension. 

Star receiver Jameson Williams rejoined the lineup this week, decreasing the need for receiver depth, while defensive tackle Brodric Martin and cornerbacks Emmanuel Moseley and Ifeatu Melifonwu are nearing readiness to return from injuries. 

Additionally, the Lions face pressure to elevate tight end Shane Zylstra to the main roster after he exhausted his practice-squad elevations, further complicating their roster situation.

If Williams clears waivers, Detroit may re-sign him to their practice squad, keeping the door open for his potential return. 

However, with his preseason performance and popularity as a free-agent prospect, another team may claim the promising receiver.

Photo Credit: Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images