LIONS
Detroit Lions DT Tyleik Williams reveals weight loss transformation
Josh HelmerLions Wire
July 27, 2026, 6:10 p.m. ET
Tyleik Williams wasn’t kidding when he said he plans to play faster in 2026
As the Detroit Lions ready to report to training camp, the second-year defensive tackle took to social media to reveal he’s dropped 50 pounds over the past five months. Williams shared the news on his Instagram story
The Ohio State product made sure to clarify that he was not 328 pounds five months ago, indicating that Williams’ 50-pound weight loss likely started with Williams above last season’s playing weight of 328 pounds
Still, it indicates Williams’ work this offseason to transform his body. It will be interesting to see what Williams weighs in at during training camp. Has he trimmed down significantly toward 300 pounds or is this 10-15 pounds less than the 328 pounds he was listed at to end last season
Either way, it should help Williams be more explosive and to play faster like he’s talked about this offseason
“I feel way better. I don’t feel as nervous, so I’m playing faster. I learned a lot last year, so just trying to use that to build on this year, you know, get better. Just how the NFL is played. It’s a lot different than college. Players are way better. Schemes are way better, so just having a year under my belt, I feel like I’m just playing faster and more fluid,” Williams said during Lions OTAs
Fellow Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill underwent a physical transformation heading into the 2023 season. McNeill cut his body fat down to 13% entering that 2023 season and then responded with a career-high five sacks
The Lions drafted Williams in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft with pick No. 28 overall. Per Pro Football Focus, Williams logged 446 defensive snaps and recorded a 62.1 overall defensive grade
Williams totaled 18 tackles, four passes defended, two tackles for loss and one sack during his rookie season in 2025
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