As the Detroit Lions gear up for the 2025 NFL Draft, they’re also navigating critical roster decisions—particularly regarding wide receiver Jameson Williams, who is nearing his fifth-year option deadline. The team has until May 1 to make a call, and Williams recently stirred speculation with a cryptic “Stay sucka free” post on social media, potentially signaling tension in contract talks.
Williams became a fan favorite after an impressive 2024 season where he surpassed 1,000 receiving yards. However, with a significant portion of Detroit’s cap already allocated to fellow wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown, it may be tough to give Williams the payday he’s seeking.
If Detroit opts not to pick up his option or looks to trade him, CBS Sports analyst Bryan DeArdo believes the Chicago Bears could be a surprising—but logical—landing spot, despite being division rivals. “It’s rare to see intradivision trades like this,” DeArdo acknowledged, “but if Detroit were open to it, Chicago is a great fit.”
Part of the reason? New Bears head coach Ben Johnson previously served as the Lions’ offensive coordinator and knows how to utilize Williams’ skill set. While Chicago has already signed receiver Olamide Zaccheaus in free agency, they’re still building around second-year quarterback
Caleb Williams and could benefit from another offensive weapon.
DeArdo also lists other possible trade destinations that wouldn’t sting quite as much for Lions fans. Teams like the Las Vegas Raiders, Dallas Cowboys, New Orleans Saints, and Arizona Cardinals are all in the mix.
The Raiders, in particular, are seen as a strong contender. Now led by head coach Pete Carroll and new quarterback Geno Smith, Las Vegas is focused on offensive reinforcements. DeArdo suggests that pairing Williams with rookie running back Ashton Jeanty—expected to be their No. 6 pick—would be a solid step in rebuilding the team’s offense.
