By Blessing 
“He Got Me Pretty Good”: Tyleik Williams Gets His First Real Taste of the NFL
For Detroit Lions rookie defensive tackle Tyleik Williams, training camp has been a mix of progress and growing pains. The former Ohio State standout came into camp looking to make an early impact, especially after missing time during OTAs with an injury. Despite that setback, Williams has impressed coaches and has been steadily earning praise for his effort and attitude on the field.
But not every day is a highlight, especially when you’re a rookie facing off against fellow rising stars.
During Tuesday’s practice ahead of Detroit’s first preseason matchup, Williams found himself on the losing end of a few tough reps—particularly against rookie guard Tate Ratledge. The scrimmage didn’t go Williams’ way, and Ratledge’s physical dominance became pretty hard to miss. At one point, Ratledge even drove Williams to the ground, overpowering him as the offense pushed forward on a long drive.
After practice, Williams owned up to the moment with humility and a bit of humor. When asked if he’d had a “Welcome to the NFL” moment yet, he didn’t hesitate.
“Tate got me pretty good. I don’t know if y’all seen it. But, he got me pretty good today, for sure,” Williams admitted to reporters. “It was a long drive and he just came off ball, he hit me. So, iron sharpens iron. I’ll have my good plays, he’s gonna have his good plays. He got me today, for sure.”
It’s refreshing to see the two rookies pushing each other this hard already. Ratledge, who’s currently battling for the starting right guard spot after Graham Glasgow shifted to center, has been making his own case for more reps. Meanwhile, Williams is expected to take on an important rotational role, especially with veteran Alim McNeill sidelined for a while.
Though neither Ratledge nor Williams will suit up for Thursday’s preseason opener against the Chargers, head coach Dan Campbell confirmed both will see action in the second preseason game against the Falcons. It’s shaping up to be a meaningful chance for both to bounce back—or build on their progress.
Fans should also keep an eye on other young players like wideouts Dominic Lovett and Isaac TeSlaa, along with edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein. Detroit’s recent draft classes have produced several under-25 stars, and the team is hoping this rookie crop will keep that trend alive.
Williams may have gotten a harsh reminder that the NFL isn’t college anymore, but if this early test against Ratledge is any indication, he’s on the right track—iron sharpening iron, just as he said.