With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, Detroit Lions fans are looking back at last year's first-round pick.

Defensive tackle Tyleik Williams had a solid rookie season, but the fanbase remains split on whether the 2025 selection was the right move for the team.

But the reaction hasn’t been unanimous. Instead, it has split opinions across the NFL fanbase for a player whose rookie season earned him a 62.1 PFF grade.

The spotlight will soon shift to this year’s No. 17 pick for the Detroit Lions. With Taylor Decker no longer in the picture, reports are reporting a chance to bring in reinforcements alongside Penei Sewell.

DT Tyleik Williams landed a four-year rookie contract at about $16.5 million as an interior defensive lineman.

After finishing with a 15-2 record in 2024, the Lions brought the player in as a first-round, 28th overall pick. 

He played all 17 games in his first season and had an impressive 68.1 PFF grade in the pass rush department, with one sack. His run defense, however, wasn't as impressive.

His initial days as a rookie talent were a bit slower with the Lions, but by the end of the season, he proved why the Lions have invested in him.

Tyleik Williams has been on his toes for the Lions throughout the season, generating the required production and tackling the gaps. And, the fans have mixed opinions on him.

Lions Fans Split Over First Round Pick as Reactions Pour In on Draft Direction and Fit

The reaction from Detroit Lions fans has been all over the place, and it starts with how they view the player’s performance so far. 

Although the fans have always criticized GM Brad Holmes' decision, this time it's different.

Some see it as steady but not special.

“He played up to his draft level, he wasn’t awful, but didn’t stir echoes of Suh,” one fan put it plainly.

That comparison alone shows the expectations tied to a first-round pick in Detroit. There’s also a group willing to wait it out.

“We will see this upcoming season, up to proof, but I have high hopes,” one fan said, while another added, “I think he will step up big time this year.” 

That optimism leans on development, the belief that limited snaps haven’t told the full story yet.  Others are even more confident.

“Yes! He has nothing but upside in my opinion,” one fan said.

But the criticism hasn’t been quiet either.

“No, he was not good in limited snaps last year… first round bust unless he makes huge steps,” one fan wrote. 

Another took issue with his skill set.

“Run stuffing D tackle with zero pass rushing upside,” a comment read.

And then there are the emotional reactions that come with draft frustration.

“H*** No… Brad should know better…,” another user simply said.

That mix of patience, belief, and frustration sums it up. Lions fans aren’t just judging the pick, they’re waiting to see if it pays off soon.

What do you think about Tyleik Williams’ performance? Share your opinion with us in the comments. Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote