By Moses Joshua 
Rookie Defensive Tackle Faces Growing Challenges as Lions Prepare for Crucial NFC Showdown
A Slower Start Than Expected
When the Detroit Lions drafted rookie defensive tackle Tyleik Williams out of Ohio State, expectations were sky-high. His combination of strength, athleticism, and raw potential made him an immediate favorite to become a difference-maker in Detroit’s front line. The Lions envisioned Williams as an anchor against the run, with the upside to evolve into a disruptive pass-rusher as he developed under head coach Dan Campbell.
However, midway through his rookie campaign, things haven’t gone as planned. Williams saw the field for just eight snaps in the Lions’ 44–22 victory over the Washington Commanders in Week 10 — a noticeable dip in playing time that has sparked questions among fans and analysts alike.
Speaking on 97.1 The Ticket Tuesday morning, Campbell provided some honest insight into the situation.
“Tyleik’s just a young guy continuing to get better, growing,” Campbell said. “There’s a little inconsistency at times, but that’s not out of the norm. Correct it, get a little bit better, and move on. The hard thing for him, which is a good thing for all of us, is Mac (Alim McNeill) is playing good, (D.J.) Reader’s playing good, (Roy) Lopez is playing good. So like, hey, man, you got some good players in front of you right now, and so what you do is elevate his game, and then he’ll be in front of them.”
Campbell’s remarks make it clear — Williams’ situation isn’t about effort or attitude, but about competition and readiness. The Lions’ defensive front has been one of the strongest units in the NFC, leaving little room for a rookie to get extended reps.
A Depth Chart Full of Obstacles
The Lions drafted Williams believing he could contribute early, especially given his college pedigree and high football IQ. But the strong play from veterans Alim McNeill, D.J. Reader, and Roy Lopez has made breaking into the rotation a tall order.
Assistant general manager Ray Agnew spoke highly of Williams’ potential during the offseason, noting that his development would be key to the team’s long-term defensive success.
“This kid has a lot of upside,” Agnew said last May. “He’s got a chance to be a really, really good player for us, and we’re excited he was there for us. He’s got a chance to be a really good run player, and I think he’s underrated as a pass rusher. This kid has a chance to be a force in the middle.”
Unfortunately, the numbers tell a different story for now. According to Pro Football Focus, Williams ranks 119th out of 202 interior defenders with a 54.5 overall grade, while his 46.9 run-defense score ties for 148th. Despite flashes of potential, he’s logged only 10 quarterback pressures on 122 snaps, indicating that his transition to the NFL has been more challenging than anticipated.
The Road Ahead
If the Lions were in a rebuilding phase, Williams might have more opportunities to play through mistakes and learn on the job. But as a team sitting atop the NFC North with postseason ambitions, Detroit can’t afford growing pains on the defensive front.
Still, Campbell’s tone suggests that the organization hasn’t lost faith in their young lineman — only that patience will be required. Williams’ rookie campaign may not feature headline-grabbing performances, but the Lions still believe he can grow into a future centerpiece of their defense.
For now, the rookie must focus on improving each week, waiting for his moment to shine. As Campbell said, it’s about “getting better and moving on” — and if there’s one thing Detroit’s culture has proven, it’s that perseverance pays off.