Lions prove they're not a needs-based drafting team with the selection of Tyleik Williams, why this is the first time we disagree with that approach
Detroit Lions fans have been begging for an edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson for so long now, and the Lions are going to have them wait a little bit longer. They selected Ohio State defense ve tackle Tyleik Williams. There's nothing to dislike about Williams. He's a tremendous run stopper and has some pass rush […]
Detroit Lions fans have been begging for an edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson for so long now, and the Lions are going to have them wait a little bit longer. They selected Ohio State defense ve tackle Tyleik Williams.
There's nothing to dislike about Williams. He's a tremendous run stopper and has some pass rush juice with 20 pressures and three sacks. He's going to be a good player when he gets a chance to start.
Here's our A to Z Sports scouting report on Williams:
Tyleik Williams Scouting Report
Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State
Age: 22 (2/25/2003)
A to Z Sports Expected Draft Position: 42nd
Pre-Draft Round Projection: Second round
"Tyleik Williams worked hard to get his body where it is today. He weighed north of 350 pounds when he started at Ohio State in 2021. He weighed in at 329 at his Pro Day, and since he lost weight, you could see him burst off the line. His instant burst and power put interior linemen in a tough spot and forces holding penalties at a high rate as a result. Williams is going to get on the field early in his NFL career, and I won't be shocked if he is a full-time starter by the time his rookie season comes to an end." –Destin Adams
Career Projection: Eventual good starter
I don't typically disagree with Brad Holmes on his draft choices, but I totally disagree on this one. The Lions just let some very good edge rushers off the board to fill a position next year instead of this year.
I'm all for best player available, but this was not the best player available. We had him as the 42nd player on our board. The Lions skipped over much higher-ranked players and much more needed positions, and it just feels like a big letdown.
If the Lions plan to trade up in the second round and grab one of the pass rushers out there, then you can understand this move. Right now, it just feels like a mistake.
Perhaps we'll eat these words someday. I'm not sure how that works since, like I said, I've generally been blown away with every pick they've made.
