The Detroit Lions are about a few things above anything else. They love their players to have grit and leadership. They love going after team captains and guys that they know are going to fit their culture. That's why it wasn't a surprise when the Lions drafted Mekhi Wingo out of LSU in 2024.
Wingo wore number 18 for the Tigers in 2023. That might not seem like anything big to be outside of the program, but it's a big deal. The number 18 is given to the player by the program, and it's given to the player who best embodies leadership and the spirit of the program. The Lions had to have loved that about Wingo.
Maybe that's what they like about LSU running back Josh Williams. He's the man who wore number 18 during the 2024 season. The Lions have had a meeting with Williams already at the Shrine Bowl, and they were in attendance at his Pro Day on Wednesday. There's some interest there.
Williams had a nice season for the Tigers in 2024. He ran for 482 yards and six touchdowns. He also caught 31 passes for 263 yards. Those aren't Ashton Jeanty numbers, but the Lions aren't really looking for an Ashton Jeanty right now.
They're looking for someone who could potentially take over for David Montgomery when that time comes. That's why they've been meeting with so many running backs as of late. Williams could potentially be that guy. He could also be a strong special-teams guy.
Williams is not currently projected to be drafted. He would be a priority undrafted free agent for the Lions. As we know, Detroit really cares about those players and they do play them and develop them. Keep an eye on Williams.
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