The Detroit Lions’ defense has been instrumental to the team’s 6-3 record. Despite sustaining numerous injuries and having seven defenders currently on injured reserve, the Lions' defense ranks eighth in rushing yards allowed (94.3), 12th in passing yards allowed (199.7), and fourth in sacks (30).
Their defense is performing at an elite level, even though defensive lineman Tyleik Williams hasn’t made much of an impact. Through 9 games, the first-round selection has logged just six tackles, one tackle for loss, and three pass deflections. His underwhelming start, combined with the return of Alim McNeill, has resulted in a reduced workload over the last three games.
This has raised concerns about whether Williams will be a contributor for the team’s playoff push, as head coach Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Kelvin Shepard seemingly aren’t aligned on his development.
Lions Coaches Have Differing Plans for DT Tyleik Williams
During an appearance on 97.1 The Ticket on Tuesday, Campbell discussed how well the veteran defensive lineman is playing as part of the reasoning behind Williams' diminishing workload. “The hard thing for him (Williams), which is a good thing for us, is Mac (McNeill) is playing good, (D.J.) Reader’s playing good, (Roy) Lopez is playing good.”
Sheppard, meanwhile, told reporters Thursday, “There will be an effort to get Tyleik Williams more snaps”, per Detroit News’ Nolan Bianchi. With this, it appears Campbell and Sheppard have different plans regarding how to utilize Williams in the upcoming weeks. While both have displayed the utmost confidence in the rookie, the team should continue to use the current rotation along the defensive line, as it has been working in their favor.
In the last three games, the Lions' defense has been shutting down opposing offenses, allowing an average of 265.7 total yards and 19.3 points. During this stretch, Williams has combined for just 41 snaps, logging three total tackles and three hurries. His 54.5 Pro Football Focus grade ranks 88th out of 125 interior defenders, whereas his 46.9 run grade ranks 99th.
While it’s important to give the rookie snaps for him to grow and develop, his play hasn’t been cutting it. They cannot afford to go through growing pains; instead, they must capitalize on their Super Bowl-caliber roster. If the defensive line continues its domination at the line of scrimmage, then they must keep Williams in a backup role.
Although it’s been a disappointing year for Williams thus far, he still has time to showcase his first-round talent, but he must do it immediately. He must display his best performance in their upcoming games against the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants, as both of their offenses continue to struggle.
If Williams can provide vital contributions in these two games, Lions’ fans should expect his workload to increase.
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