Entering the 2025 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions didn’t face many urgent roster needs. For most of the 2024 campaign, they were arguably the NFL’s top team. They were mostly looking to patch a few minor holes.

An upgrade at guard would’ve been welcome, but Detroit also had room to benefit from a long-term edge rusher or a dominant force on the interior defensive line.

After Aidan Hutchinson went down early last year, the Lions still found ways to win despite a limited pass rush. Hutchinson remains a force all by himself, but he shouldn’t have to carry the load alone. Adding another young edge presence would make the unit lethal for seasons to come.

Detroit held a strong position in Round 1. Their solid drafting in recent years gave them the flexibility to take a chance on a player others might pass on. That allowed them to select someone who doesn’t necessarily need to contribute right away.

Luckily for the Lions, Tyleik Williams was still on the board. At 6-foot-3 and 335 pounds, he may look like a traditional nose tackle, but there’s much more to his game. He’s more athletic than expected and brings both run-stuffing ability and interior pressure. His presence should make Hutchinson’s job easier, too.

Best of all, even if Detroit hadn’t landed Williams, they’d still be built for a deep playoff run. Keeping stars like Hutchinson on the field will be key. The coaching staff saw a few changes, but Dan Campbell is still at the helm, and his culture remains intact.

Williams could be a day-one difference-maker inside. His impact might help push Detroit toward finally capturing that elusive Super Bowl title. The Lions are on the brink—and Williams may be the missing piece.