The first round of the NFL Draft is over and the pick is in. Defensive lineman Tyleik Williams is heading to the Motor City.
A round-up of grades from the media shows their feelings about the pick are pretty lukewarm. Take a look.
“They needed depth and more help on their defensive line and Williams is a player who scouts kept raving about throughout the process. He can push the pocket from inside, which they need. I might have gone edge here, but I get it.”
“While the Lions could’ve benefited from adding an edge rusher or interior offensive lineman in this spot, Williams should be a solid fit up front for Detroit’s defense. He has impressive movement skills for a 330-plus pounder, with strong hands and consistent effort through the whistle.”
USA Today’s Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz: C+
“Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes certainly have a type along the defensive line. Williams is a powerful presence who will command the line of scrimmage and stuff the run consistently. He might not fit the profile of a typical first-round defensive tackle given he looks unlikely to ever become a prolific pass rusher, but he can afford some flexibility to a group that is waiting on Alim McNeill.”
Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski: B
“The Detroit Lions have a type. Ohio State’s Tyleik Williams fits the mold. … The 6’3”, 334-pound Williams should immediately help the Lions’ run defense, and he has the potential to develop into an every-down defender.”
Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano and Matt Verderame: C+
“Williams is an imposing run defender. He needs to improve as a pass rusher, but he won’t have to worry about job security if the elite run defense skills carry into Sundays.”
Yahoo Sports’ Charles McDonald: B
“A quality, big run plugger that has some juice. Williams will likely be their long-term replacement for D.J. Reader, but Williams can play now and help their run defense while Alim McNeil recovers from a torn ACL.”
And onto the rest of your notes.
More analysis: PFF’s Cris Collinsworth, Trevor Sikkema, Dalton Wasserman, and Max Chadwick discuss the Lions’ selection.
A cool behind-the-scenes look at what the Lions are up do during the draft.
The (draft) room where it happens
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) April 25, 2025
Some non-draft stuff from earlier this week: the boys are putting in some offseason work.
Meet the 2024 Detroit Lions International Fan of the Year, Marius Dell, who is one of the co-leaders of the Detroit Lions German Fan Club.