The Detroit Lions are heading into the 2026 season with a new voice running the offense, as Drew Petzing takes over as offensive coordinator after his time with the Arizona Cardinals. Even with that change, the expectation is that the core playmakers should still have plenty of chances to shine.
ESPN’s Dan Graziano sees that happening in a way that would turn a few heads. His pick is that Jameson Williams, not Amon-Ra St. Brown, ends up as the Lions’ leading receiver in 2026.
“Don't be surprised if ... Jameson Williams is the team's leading receiver,” Graziano writes.
“No disrespect to Amon-Ra St. Brown, one of the most consistent pass catchers in the entire league.
But I think this Lions offense is going to hum this season, and Williams is the player poised to take the biggest leap.”
That kind of outcome would be a real departure from what Detroit has done through the air in recent years. St. Brown has been the steady centerpiece of the passing game, while Williams has continued to build his role since the two have been teammates beginning in 2022.
The numbers from last season show how much ground Williams would still need to cover. He posted career highs with 102 targets, 65 catches, 1,117 yards and seven touchdowns.
St. Brown, though, was still on another level, finishing with 117 receptions on 172 targets for 1,401 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Graziano’s reasoning points to the way this offense could operate in 2026. With a weaker defense and a heavily depleted secondary, the Lions could find themselves in more shootouts and throwing the ball more often. That would give both receivers a chance to pile up production.
Williams has the kind of big-play ability that could make this happen if Petzing leans into it. Still, the Lions are not likely to pull back on St. Brown, a four-time Pro Bowler who remains a major part of everything they do on offense.
So while the idea of Williams finishing first in the receiver room is intriguing, it would still qualify as a major surprise. For it to happen, he’d need more explosive plays, more volume, and a clear leap forward.
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