New Lions Addition Already in Trouble Following NFL Draft

After a strong showing in the NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions quickly turned their focus to signing undrafted free agents, aiming to build an even stronger roster for 2025 than they had in 2024.

Beyond the draft, Detroit was active in free agency, adding players like D.J. Reed and securing extensions for key contributors such as Derrick Barnes.

However, one of the Lions’ recent free-agent pickups is already facing uncertainty. Detroit’s draft choices may soon push him out of the lineup before he even has a chance to settle in.

Ohio State’s Tyleik Williams, who tallied 20 run stops and showed promise as a pass rusher in 2024, has already made an impression.

Tyleik Williams’ Arrival Puts Roy Lopez’s Spot in Jeopardy

With their first-round pick, the Lions selected defensive tackle Tyleik Williams. He is expected to contribute immediately, joining a group that features Levi Onwuzurike and Mekhi Wingo, while Alim McNeill recovers from injury.

Meanwhile, Detroit had recently signed veteran Roy Lopez to a one-year, $4.65 million contract. Lopez started all 16 games for the Arizona Cardinals in 2024 but was ranked just 116th out of 219 interior defensive linemen by Pro Football Focus.

Given Williams’ addition, Lopez’s role could be in serious jeopardy. Williams is projected to take a significant share of snaps, given his impressive college production—100 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks over two seasons—and his strength as a run defender, a major area of need for Detroit.

The Lions’ defensive struggles, particularly against the run in their NFC playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, made it clear that upgrades were necessary. Williams, paired with Aidan Hutchinson, has the potential to transform the defensive front, and Lopez may not be able to prevent that shift.

While the final rotation is yet to be determined, Lopez could find himself fighting for a roster spot before even suiting up for the Lions.