By Sunday 
The Detroit Lions just checked off a big box on their offseason to-do list: first-round pick Tyleik Williams is officially in the building, pen to paper and all.
A Deal Worth the Wait
On Wednesday afternoon, the team announced that Williams, the 28th overall pick in April’s NFL Draft, has signed his rookie deal. It’s a four-year contract worth over $16.48 million, with a team option for a fifth year—standard for first-round selections, but still a major milestone.
Williams is a key piece of Detroit’s 2024 draft class and one they expect to have an immediate impact on the defensive line.
From Buckeye to Big Stage
Tyleik isn’t just some name off the board. He’s fresh off a standout collegiate career at Ohio State, where he became a consistent force on the Buckeyes’ front line. Over his final season—during a national title run, no less—he racked up 46 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks. That kind of production speaks for itself, and Detroit clearly believes he’s ready for the next level.
The Lions, who’ve been steadily building a physical identity on defense, just added another piece to that puzzle. If you watched Williams at Ohio State, you know he brings not just size and strength, but also a disruptive presence in the trenches that offenses hate to deal with.
Almost a Full House
With Williams signed, Detroit now has six of their seven 2024 draft picks under contract. The only one left? Second-rounder Tate Ratledge, a guard who’s still in the negotiation phase. But considering how smoothly things have gone so far, it’s likely just a matter of time before he’s locked in, too.
Looking Ahead
For Lions fans, the excitement around Williams isn’t just about the signature—it’s about what’s coming next. Training camp, preseason reps, and ultimately, real Sundays where he’s lining up in Honolulu blue.
Detroit’s defense took big strides last year, and if Williams hits the ground running, they could be even tougher this time around. For now, though, it’s just good to know that their top guy is officially on board.
Welcome to the squad, Tyleik. Let’s get to work.