The Detroit Lions are coming off a big win against the Seattle Seahawks on Monday night, September 30, marking their first victory over Seattle since 2012. However, in the midst of this success, two Lions players have found themselves in some trouble during the bye week. Wide receiver Jameson Williams and defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike were fined by the NFL for their actions during the game against Seattle.
Jameson Williams Has ‘Done an Outstanding Job of Rehabbing’
Despite the NFL penalty, Williams has shown significant growth this season. In the Lions’ 42-29 victory over the Seahawks, he recorded two receptions for 80 yards, including a 70-yard touchdown. Through the first four games, Williams is the only receiver in the league with three or more catches of 50+ yards.
Head coach Dan Campbell attributed Williams’ progress to a team effort after the win against Seattle, but he emphasized Williams’ personal responsibility in his development.
“There are many people involved in that,” Campbell said. “But it starts with him… He’s done an incredible job rehabbing after the injury, dealing with the gambling suspension and the time off, and then he got hurt again during camp.”
Campbell further added, “He’s matured a lot, worked hard, and grinded. It’s a testament to him being open and coachable. We have many resources here that help guys grow, not only as players but also as individuals.”
After the bye week, the Lions will face the Dallas Cowboys on October 13 at AT&T Stadium.
‘Gameday Accountability’ for Lions’ Jameson Williams and Levi Onwuzurike
Each week, the NFL issues penalties to players for actions taken during the previous week’s games. According to the NFL, these penalties are part of “gameday accountability” and are intended to protect players from unnecessary risk, maintain competitive balance, and uphold the integrity of the game. The NFL and the NFL Players Association have agreed upon a set of rules for game-related violations, and the fines and punishments are detailed every Saturday at 4 p.m. Eastern during the regular season.
One example is Williams, who was fined $14,069 for dunking the ball over the crossbar after scoring a 70-yard touchdown. The celebration was meant as a tribute to Calvin Johnson, who used to do the same, and who was being honored at the game. However, the NFL deemed it unsportsmanlike conduct (use of a prop).
Onwuzurike was fined $13,849 for a separate incident. In the fourth quarter, he hit Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith, driving his body weight onto him, which was ruled as roughing the passer. The NFL issued the fine to enforce its rule protecting quarterbacks from such hits.
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