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Dan Campbell Sends Strong 3-Word Message on Tyleik Williams' Fit With Detroit Lions

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Meyer | Last updated Apr 25, 2025 5:44 PM ET

The Detroit Lions passed up on a chance to draft a local hero on Thursday night when they eschewed Michigan Wolverines defensive back Will Johnson for Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams with the 28th overall pick of the 2025 NFL draft.

The Lions' selection surprised many fans considering their defensive line is already a position of strength with several key players expected back from injury this season.

On Friday morning, shortly after the draft, Lions coach Dan Campbell was interview by Fox 2 Detroit sportscaster Dan Miller during which he shared a strong three-word message on the Lions' draft decision.

"He really fits what we're all about," Campbell said to Miller. "I think early in the process he's somebody that we identified that really fit all our needs.

"He's really an athletic big man, he can play the nose, he can play the three, he can play some five-technique...Man he's excellent against the run, he can get an edge, push the pocket," Campbell continued.

"There's a lot of upside with this guy...Smart, instinctive football player...We're fired up."

Campbell said that he reminds the Lions of Alim McNeill, their star interior lineman, while pondering the possibilities of the Lions' new front seven.

"That's why we picked him, we feel like he can get up to speed pretty quick and give us a hand. And then the thought of this kid continuing to grow, we get Mac back (McNeill), you got (DJ) Reader, (Roy) Lopez, you get Hutch back (Aidan Hutchinson), (Marcus) Davenport, so it excites you," Campbell added, with Miller saying he heard the excitement in the Detroit coach's voice.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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