As the Detroit Lions head into their bye week, fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the team’s strong start through the first seven games. Despite a rash of injuries, the defense has outperformed expectations, while the offense has regained its rhythm and once again looks explosive. With a week off to heal and recharge, Detroit appears poised to come back even stronger in the second half of the campaign.

However, one area that could stand improvement is the play of rookie defensive tackle Tyleik Williams. The Lions’ first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft was forced into a larger role early due to Alim McNeill’s injury, but he hasn’t exactly delivered on the lofty expectations that come with being a top pick.

Tyleik Williams Hasn’t Found His Groove Yet in Detroit

The fact that the Lions immediately restored McNeill to a full workload after his nine-month layoff in Week 7 says plenty about Williams’ early-season struggles. When McNeill returned from his ACL tear, Williams’ playing time dropped to just 21 snaps, while the veteran logged 45—more than Williams has seen in any contest this year.

Of course, comparing a 22-year-old rookie to a seasoned veteran with a $97 million contract isn’t entirely fair. No one expects Williams to perform at that level right away. Still, the lack of impact and consistent production from the rookie remains a concern for Detroit’s coaching staff.

Through 205 defensive snaps, Williams has recorded only four total tackles (just one solo) and a single quarterback hit, with no other notable statistics. According to Pro Football Focus, he’s tallied nine total pressures and earned grades of 53.6 overall, 44.7 against the run, and 64.6 as a pass rusher—ranking 91st out of 124 defensive tackles league-wide.

PFF grades don’t tell the entire story, of course, as they can overlook scheme-specific responsibilities and coaching intent. Still, you’d expect a first-round pick to flash more playmaking ability regardless of context.

Williams wasn’t widely projected to go in the first round, but general manager Brad Holmes has a reputation for trusting his evaluations and drafting for upside and fit. So far, that bet hasn’t paid off. On the bright side, Williams played his best game of the season against Tampa Bay, suggesting that with McNeill back and his role reduced, the rookie from Ohio State might yet find another gear.