Tyleik Williams may have spent his Ohio State career loathing “that team up north,” but when the Detroit Lions called his name on draft night, all those old feelings took a back seat.
The Lions made Williams their first-round pick at No. 28 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft — and for the big defensive tackle, it was a dream come true.
“I had my phone right next to me, ringer all the way up,” Williams said about draft night. “When I got that call, I don’t even know how to describe the feeling. Nothing compares to it.”
Detroit’s coaches and front office couldn’t have been happier either. Head coach Dan Campbell raved about Williams’ versatility, toughness, and athleticism. Whether it’s stopping the run, pushing the pocket, or lining up anywhere on the defensive front, Campbell believes Williams can do it all — and do it at a high level.
The stats back it up. Over his last two seasons at Ohio State, Williams racked up 100 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, and more than five sacks. He was a nightmare for running backs, earning one of the nation’s top run-defense grades.
Detroit general manager Brad Holmes praised not just Williams’ physical tools, but his football IQ and work ethic. “He’s incredibly instinctive,” Holmes said. “From the combine to his team visit, he kept checking every box for us.”
The Lions have big plans for Williams, especially with veteran DT Alim McNeill recovering from a knee injury. Whether at nose tackle or three-technique, Williams looks set to make an immediate impact.
Even though Williams joked that he’s still “Team Up North” when it comes to the Michigan rivalry, he’s ready to give everything to help Detroit chase a Super Bowl.
“It’s been a mix of emotions,” Williams said. “Crying, laughing, just spending time with my family and friends — it’s been everything I hoped for.”
From Buckeye to Lion: Tyleik Williams Ready to Dominate in Detroit
