The Detroit Lions are officially back at work, getting things rolling in OTAs as they prep for another Super Bowl push. There’s a good mix of familiar faces and fresh talent this year, and fans are buzzing to see how the new additions fit in. But not every new face has made a strong first impression.
One name that’s already getting some side-eye? First-round pick Tyleik Williams.
Detroit shocked a lot of people when they passed on Michigan star cornerback Will Johnson and instead grabbed Williams, a defensive tackle from Ohio State, at pick No. 28. On paper, it made some sense. Alim McNeill might not be ready to start the season, and Williams is a big-time run stopper. But things didn’t start off great.
Williams tweaked something during his 40-yard dash at Ohio State’s pro day, reportedly just a cramp, and said he was “all healed” shortly after. But despite that, he mostly sat out rookie minicamp and didn’t participate during OTAs either — which has fans raising their eyebrows. If he’s good to go, why isn’t he out there?
Meanwhile, the guy Lions fans wanted — Will Johnson — slid into the second round and landed with the Cardinals. Arizona’s defensive coordinator is already hyped about him, calling Johnson “phenomenal” and pumped to get to work with him.
Now look, it’s still super early. No pads. No real contact. No need to panic just yet. Teammates like D.J. Reader say Williams is picking things up quickly and has a good football brain. But it’s totally fair to want to actually see him on the field before getting too excited.
If he can stay healthy and start showing out at training camp, the Lions could end up looking smart. But if this turns into a lingering issue and Johnson starts balling in Arizona? You can bet fans will be second-guessing that pick all season long.
