Lions WR Jameson Williams won't face charges in traffic stop

Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams won't face any legal action stemming from an early October traffic stop, according to Wayne County prosecutors.

The update was provided late Monday night after a warrant request was reviewed on a concealed weapons charge. The warrant was denied because the case law is silent regarding the specific issue, and the legislative intent of the concealed pistol license (CPL) statute does not support charges under these facts.

Prosecutor Kym Worth released the following statement on the matter, provided by ESPN's Eric Woodyard:

"We did not consider that Mr. Williams is a Detroit professional athlete in our decision making. We have charged Detroit area athletes before and would not have hesitated to do so again if the facts of this case could be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. When it comes to charging decisions, we do not take into consideration who the potential defendant is, how much power and influence they have, or how beloved they may be. We deal with the facts and the law only."

The Detroit Police Department had submitted the request warrant regarding the Oct. 8 traffic stop that involved Williams and a handgun found inside his brother's car.

Williams was placed in brief custody for the possession of a handgun, even though the gun was registered in his name. However, Williams failed to have a Concealed Pistol License (CPL). Williams eventually was handcuffed and placed in the back of a patrol vehicle but was later released.

Two guns were found in the vehicle; one in the backseat that belonged to Williams' brother — who was sitting in the driver's seat — and one underneath the passenger seat, which belonged to Williams, who was sitting there. Williams' brother had a concealed pistol license and Williams did not.

However, according to the report and after the review, Williams would be qualified to obtain a license to carry a concealed pistol and transport the tame.

Williams was the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft after the Lions traded up 20 spots to select him. Injuries hampered his first season in the league, as he only played in six games. He played in 12 games last year, hauling in 24 catches for 354 yards and two touchdowns. He also had three carries for 29 yards and a rushing touchdown.

He was suspended two games this season for violating the NFL's Performance-Enhancing Substances (PES) policy but has an otherwise productive third NFL season.

He had a career-best game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 11, when he hauled in four catches for 124 yards and a touchdown. This season, he has 54 catches for 602 yards and four touchdowns.

Williams and the Lions (10-1) will take on the Chicago Bears (4-7) at Ford Field on Thanksgiving day with kickoff scheduled for 11:30 a.m. CT.