The Lions announced Monday that Williams (knee) has been designated for a return from the reserve/non-football injury list.
Williams isn't expected to be a candidate for action during this week's Thanksgiving Day contest against the Bills, but the transaction is a sign that the rookie first-round pick is nearing full health after suffering a left ACL tear in January during the National Championship Game while still with Alabama. Detroit will have a 21-day window to evaluate Williams at practice without him counting against the 53-man roster, and he can be activated at any time during that span. Once back to full health, Williams profiles to handle a significant role alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown atop the Lions' depth chart at wide receiver.