Report: Detroit Lions signing WR Tyrell Williams to 1-year deal

The Detroit Lions got a jump start on free agency Wednesday. The team has reportedly agreed to terms with former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Tyrell Williams, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Per the report, the deal is worth “up to $6.2 million,” but there are no details yet on the structure of the contract.

UPDATE: Per Ian Rapoport, Williams’ base salary will be $4.7 million.

Williams notably spent the first four years of his career with the Los Angeles Chargers, overlapping with current Lions offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn for two years. In those two seasons, Williams made 84 receptions for 1,381 yards and nine touchdowns.

After his successful stint with the Chargers, he signed a four-year, $44 million deal with the Raiders. In 2019, he hauled in 42 catches for 651 yards and another six touchdowns. Unfortunately for Williams, he lost his entire 2020 season due to a torn labrum and was subsequently released just over a week ago, saving the Raiders $10 million in cap space.

Williams joins a Lions team in serious need of wide receivers. With Marvin Jones Jr. and Danny Amendola both already with one foot out the door and the future of Kenny Golladay unknown, Williams has an opportunity to start right away. At 6-foot-4, Williams is a big-bodied receiver that can make some of the plays that Jones had in the previous five seasons.

The Lions have yet to confirm the move.