Overview

• The Detroit Lions used their No. 28 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft to select Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams, a player widely projected as a second-round talent.
• Analysts were surprised by the pick, with ESPN ranking Williams as the 59th-best prospect and CBS Sports grading the selection a C+ due to positional depth and other roster priorities.
• Williams recorded 100 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks over two collegiate seasons, earning a reputation as a strong run stopper who aligns with Detroit’s defensive philosophy.
• Detroit’s decision reflects a long-term investment in solidifying their interior defensive line, which already includes established players like DJ Reader and Alim McNeill.
• Head coach Dan Campbell’s emphasis on a run-stopping identity influenced the pick, with NBC Sports analyst Chris Simms noting the cultural fit despite questions of draft value.