ESPN's wording is a little unclear, but it appears the ban will begin immediately, meaning Williams will miss games against the Titans and Packers. The third-year pro seems to have copped to the crime, telling ESPN he has "no choice but to take it on the chin." He also said he is "in good spirits just ready to get back with the my brothers ASAP soon as possible." Williams' snaps had been down ever so slightly the past two weeks, while his targets have been dwindling for a month. It's fair to wonder if the Lions have known for a week or two. This is a major rupture of trust between team and player after coach Dan Campbell in particular displayed unwavering public faith in Williams following his gambling ban. It's possible his role could be decreased upon his return, but he still does things role players like Kalif Raymond and Tim Patrick can't. Despite the headache and uncertainty, we would keep Williams around on our fantasy benches.
Patrick came within a yard of scoring his first touchdown since 2021 before a review overturned the initial call on the field. Patrick's 68-yard outing comings after the team's Week 5 bye, and two weeks after he surprised by 2-52 in Week 4. The veteran receiver has been targeted 10 times in the four games he's played in this season. While his recent yardage totals are enticing, Patrick is producing on very limited opportunities. We wouldn't recommend starting him in Week 7 against the Vikings.