Tyleik Williams of the Ohio State Buckeyes is selected by the Detroit Lions with the 28th overall pick.
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions made a significant move by selecting defensive tackle Tyleik Williams from Ohio State with the 28th overall pick. This choice reflects the team’s strategic focus on strengthening their defensive line, particularly the interior, to enhance their overall defensive capabilities. Williams, known for his exceptional run-stopping abilities and strong football IQ, was seen as a natural fit for the Lions’ defensive scheme.
Tyleik Williams hails from Manassas, Virginia, and began his collegiate journey at Alabama. However, due to roster constraints, he redirected his talents to Ohio State, where he quickly made a name for himself. Standing 6’3″ and weighing 334 pounds, Williams possesses a formidable presence on the field. His college career was marked by consistent performance, particularly in run defense, earning him an impressive 88.6 grade from Pro Football Focus in 2024 .
Run Defense: Williams excels in stopping the run, showcasing his ability to control the line of scrimmage and disrupt offensive plays. His technique and awareness make him a formidable force against the run.
Athleticism: Despite his size, Williams demonstrates remarkable agility and quickness, allowing him to navigate through offensive lines effectively.
Football Intelligence: Recognized for his high football IQ, Williams’s understanding of the game enables him to anticipate plays and react accordingly, making him a valuable asset to any defensive scheme.
Pass Rush: One area where Williams has room for growth is in his pass-rushing capabilities. While effective against the run, enhancing his ability to pressure the quarterback will make him a more complete defensive tackle.
Conditioning: Concerns about his conditioning and endurance could impact his effectiveness during prolonged drives. Improving his stamina will be crucial for maintaining a high level of play throughout games .
The Lions’ selection of Williams aligns with their defensive strategy, aiming to bolster the interior of their defensive line. With starter Alim McNeill recovering from an ACL injury, Williams is expected to contribute immediately, potentially sharing starter reps at the 3-technique position with Levi Onwuzurike during training camp .
General Manager Brad Holmes emphasized the importance of a strong scheme fit over pure value, opting for Williams’s run-stopping abilities and football intelligence. This decision reflects the Lions’ commitment to building a defense that can control the line of scrimmage and disrupt opposing offenses.
The selection of Williams has garnered mixed reactions from analysts. Some experts praised the pick, highlighting Williams’s strengths and fit within the Lions’ defensive scheme. Others questioned the value of selecting a defensive tackle at the 28th overall pick, suggesting that the Lions might have addressed other areas of need .
Despite the differing opinions, the consensus is that Williams has the potential to make an immediate impact and develop into a cornerstone of the Lions’ defense. His ability to contribute against the run and his football intelligence make him a valuable addition to the team.
Tyleik Williams’s selection by the Detroit Lions at the 28th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft represents a strategic move to strengthen the team’s defensive line. With his exceptional run-stopping abilities and strong football IQ, Williams is poised to contribute immediately and develop into a key player in the Lions’ defensive schemes. As he continues to refine his skills, particularly in pass rushing and conditioning, Williams has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Lions’ defense for years to come.
