Dan Campbell: Jameson Williams 'Putting In Work' in Training Camp

Read more on what Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell had to say on Day 4 of training camp in Allen Park.

Jameson Williams figures to be an electric part of the Detroit Lions’ offense when he is healthy.

The rookie wide receiver from Alabama is currently inactive as the Lions begin training camp, as he’s rehabbing an ACL injury suffered in the College Football Playoff championship game in January.

“He’s had four really good days since we’ve started,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said. “Early in the morning, getting up here and working with those guys, (head athletic trainer Kevin) Bastin and staff. Then, the strengthening part of it in the weight room. That part really excites us, because he’s putting in the work.”

Though unable to participate in practice, Williams has been actively engaged in several ways. He’s constantly with the offensive staff, mainly wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.

“The football stuff, he’s very much engaged,” Campbell added. “He is putting himself in that position, ‘Okay, I’m the 'Z' here, we’re breaking the huddle, this is where I line up, this is my split. This is my route.’ (Randle-El) and (assistant wide receivers coach) Seth (Ryan) are constantly quizzing him on it. But, he’s on it. He loves that part of it.”

Though he has yet to catch his first official pass from quarterback Jared Goff, Williams has been seen carrying a ball around with him during team practices in Allen Park.

“I think he just likes it,” Campbell said. “He likes feeling it. If that keeps his mind right and gets him a little closer to being out there, then I’m all for it.”

Kirthmon F. Dozier, USA TODAY NETWORK

Campbell ‘Buying Stock’ in Josh Reynolds

Though the Lions’ additions of Williams and DJ Chark made waves during the offseason, perhaps the biggest move was Detroit general manager Brad Holmes’ decision to bring back Josh Reynolds.

At 6-foot-3, the lanky Reynolds is working to establish himself as a downfield threat. He arrived in Detroit in Week 10 of last season, after being waived by the Tennessee Titans. Once he settled in with the Lions, he caught 19 passes for 306 yards and two touchdowns over the season’s final seven games.

The 27-year-old has plenty going for him, including a rapport with Goff, after playing with him during their time with the Los Angeles Rams. Both found new homes ahead of the 2021 season, but were soon reunited.

Heading into the new season, Campbell is excited about what Reynolds has to offer.

“I was pleased with what he was able to do and how he was able to help us towards the end of last year. But, he came into this spring, and caught my eye again,” Campbell remarked. “I felt like he even took a step forward. I like this guy, I’m kind of buying stock in him. He’s a smooth athlete, he’s a grinder, he’s smart and Jared trusts him.”

Reynolds is best known as a downfield target, but has the versatility to make plays in the short and intermediate game, as well. His head coach commented Saturday that there is a certain element of slipperiness to his game.

“He’s different now, he’s a different athlete,” Campbell said. “He’s slippery, man. I call him the praying mantis, he’s the spider of death. There’s something about him, frickin' serpent. I like where he’s at, I really do. I’m glad we got him.”

Mega Millions

The Michigan Lottery held its Mega Millions drawing Friday. The jackpot was $1.28 billion. Though it was unclear if there was a winner, there is certainly one person who didn’t try their hand -- Campbell.

Though the Lions head coach said his wife tried to talk him into it, he ultimately decided against playing the lottery.

When asked what he would’ve done with the winnings, Campbell chuckled.

“I don’t know,” he said with a smile. “Because I didn’t win it. So, I don’t even want to get there with it.” 

Notes

The Lions added a body on the offensive line, as Dan Skipper has returned from the Non-Football Illness list and will practice Saturday.

Meanwhile, starting left tackle Taylor Decker will not practice. The Lions had taken it slow with him during the spring, due to a foot injury he suffered in the 2021 season finale.