Tyleik Williams, the Detroit Lions' first round pick from this year's draft, didn't see much playing time this preseason since he was ramping back up to 100% health during minicamp and training camp. However, the Ohio State University product was seen as future piece to the Lions' starting defensive line.
After making the 53-man roster, the rookie's now being tasked with another role: acting as a pass rusher alongside Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport.
His run blocking is what stands out, of course, but the tackle has the ability to use his size and strength to dictate where an opposing offensive linemen is going, which can help him land more quarterback hits than he did while in college.
Williams' pass rushing will be huge for Lions in 2025
Lions assistant general manager Ray Agnew agrees with that notion, as he told reporters on Thursday that he feels like Williams' secret tool is his ability to rush the pocket in addition to stopping the run.
"I think his pass rush is underrated, in my opinion. He can push the pocket with power. But, I think the guy has some quickness to him, also. He's learning, you go against NFL offensive linemen, that's different from college linemen, but I think he has a chance to be a good pass rusher," said Agnew of Williams' development.
Williams finished up his college career with 11.5 sacks, 28 tackles for loss, 10 passes defended, and 136 total tackles. He was clearly a force to be reckoned with when healthy, but his selection at the time seemed like a leap for Detroit. However, when considering the losses of Levi Onwuzurike and Alim McNeill, Williams' selection so early adds up.
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The Lions aren't looking to move with urgency to fill their final roster spot, one that felt like it was perfect for former Lions pass rusher Za'Darius Smith. What could be better than getting him back in the fold prior to facing off with his arch nemesis, the Green Bay Packers?
But, the Lions are trying to be strategic after last year's devastating injuries decimated their defense and stalled them in the NFC Divisional Round. Not bringing Smith back (yet) allows them some flexibility in case of injuries adding up yet again against them. If they're so sure about Williams' ability to move the pocket and pass rush alongside Hutchinson, Davenport, Mekhi Wingo, and DJ Reader, then it's fair that they're not trying to corral Smith just yet.