Wide receiver Jameson Williams would like to make an immediate impact for the Detroit Lions.
After all, the team has high hopes for him after being selected 12th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft.
He was the team’s second pick in round one and they envision him as a potential franchise cornerstone.
The Lions hope that Williams can bring the game that made him a First-Team All-American while playing for Alabama.
That year, the Missouri native had 1,572 yards and 15 touchdowns.
But as he plays in his rookie season, he would like to channel the aura of one of the franchise’s better players.
Jameson Williams rocking No. 9️⃣
(📸 @AdamSchefter) pic.twitter.com/ZkjW215dSc
— PFF (@PFF) August 11, 2022
Pro Football Focus shared a photo of Williams wearing the No. 9 Lions jersey.
He got permission from quarterback Matthew Stafford to wear that number and it’s a good choice because the now-Los Angeles Rams play-caller did enjoy some success in Detroit.
While playing for the Lions, Stafford became a Pro Bowler in 2014 and was named Comeback Player of the Year in 2011.
Stafford also had eight seasons of at least 4,000 passing yards, including seven straight from 2011 to 2017.
He also has one 5,000-yard campaign when he finished with 5,031 yards and 43 touchdowns in 2011.
Stafford also led the Lions to the playoffs three times but did not have any victories.
Channeling Megatron Would Be Too Much
Aside from Stafford’s number, Williams could have chosen Calvin Johnson‘s No. 81.
However, it would be a tall order to match the Hall of Famer’s accomplishments.
After all, he is a four-time All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowler.
Johnson also holds the record for most receiving yards in a season with 1,964 in 2012.
Likewise, letting Williams wear that number would further taint the relationship between Johnson and the Lions.
That’s not a great gesture if they want to bring him back in the fold.
