Lions announce big news on first-round pick

Williams spent four years at Ohio State, appearing in 51 total contests. Despite not being a starter as a freshman, Williams flashed incredible potential in the defensive line rotation, notching five sacks, 6.5 tackles for loss and a forced fumble. His contributions dropped in his sophomore season, but he became a full-time starter in his third year. As a starter for the Buckeyes, Williams logged 5.5 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, and six passes defensed in his junior and senior seasons.

Listed at 6-foot-3, 330 pounds, there’s hope that Williams can command multiple blockers when he’s playing at his best. He uses his pre-snap intelligence and imposing frame to stack blockers on the line and disrupt running lanes, making him outstanding in run defense.

Because of injuries along the defensive line, the Lions were frequently linked to defensive line prospects, though it was more often defensive end prospects, since the team returns both D.J. Reader and Alim McNeill. The team also re-signed former second-round pick Levi Onwuzurike to a one-year deal. Because of this there may not be an immediate role for Williams in Detroit, but the rookie will surely be counted on moving forward.

Williams is the sixth drafted rookie to sign their initial four-year contracts, leaving only Georgia offensive guard Tate Ratledge, who was selected in the second round. Here’s a breakdown of the team’s 2025 draft class:

• Round 1, No. 28: Tyleik Williams (DT, Ohio State) (signed)
• Round 2, No. 57 (from Rams through Panthers and Broncos): Tate Ratledge (G, Georgia)
• Round 3, No. 70 (from Jaguars): Isaac TeSlaa (WR, Arkansas) (signed)
• Round 5, No. 171 (from Cowboys through Patriots)*: Miles Frazier (G, LSU) (signed)
• Round 6, No. 196 (from Buccaneers): Ahmed Hassanein (OLB, Boise State) (signed)
• Round 7, No. 230 (from Cardinals through Panthers and Broncos): Dan Jackson (S, Georgia) (signed)
• Round 7, No. 244: Dominic Lovett (WR, Georgia) (signed)