If the Lions were hoping to get WR Isaiah Williams back on their practice squad, the Cincinnati Bengals spoiled their plans.
On Thursday, the Detroit Lions waived rookie wide receiver Isaiah Williams in a move to clear a roster spot. Detroit may have been looking to bring him back on their practice squad if he cleared waivers, but they will not be able to. The Cincinnati Bengals claimed him off waivers, meaning he’s now part of their 53-man roster.
Williams was one of Detroit’s high-priority undrafted free agent signings this offseason. He was a highly productive receiver in his final two years at Illinois, combining for 164 catches, 1,770 yards, and 10 touchdowns.
In Detroit, he shined in the preseason as solid depth at the slot receiver position—although his route to actual playing time was always going to be tough behind both Amon-Ra St. Brown and Kalif Raymond. Still, after a successful training camp, Williams managed to make the 53-man roster and stay there until Thursday. During his time with the Lions, he only made two game appearances, logging eight offensive and six special teams snaps. His most notable contribution was a 36-yard kickoff return against the Tennessee Titans that gave the Lions offense a short field.
As of right now, it’s not clear what Detroit’s plans are for the roster vacancy, but there are really only two logical options. Either the Lions are signing tight end Shane Zylstra to the 53-man roster now that all three of his practice squad elevations have been exhausted, or Detroit will activate one of the three players who have returned to practice from injured reserve: defensive tackle Brodric Martin, cornerback Emmanuel Moseley, or safety Ifeatu Melifonwu.
Expect that corresponding move to be announced on Saturday afternoon.
