As the NFL Draft 2025 approaches, the Detroit Lions find themselves in a precarious position with their defensive line. Currently, they may be leaning towards starting Marcus Davenport opposite Aidan Hutchinson in Week 1. However, injuries have plagued Davenport, limiting him to just six games in the past two seasons, and his last productive year was way back in 2021. At 29 years old when the season begins, he simply isn’t a long-term solution.

Enter Mykel Williams: The Game Changer

This is precisely why the Lions should seize the opportunity to draft Georgia defensive end Mykel Williams with their first-round pick. Williams is not just another edge rusher; he embodies everything the Lions are missing.

Unmatched Physical Attributes

Mykel Williams stands tall at 6-foot-5, weighing between 260 and 280 pounds. With an impressive arm length of 34.4 inches and a wingspan nearing 83 inches, he keeps offensive linemen at bay while zeroing in on the quarterback. His physical stature is matched by an elite ability to stop the run, making him a force to be reckoned with.

Speed and Explosion in His Arsenal

While not participating in all drills, his 4.77-second 40-yard dash and a swift 1.67-second 10-yard split indicate untapped speed and explosiveness. This suggests that his pass-rushing skills could flourish beyond what we've seen in college.

A Violent Playstyle That Dominates

Former Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn once praised Davenport as a 'violent and athletic' player. Williams captures that essence perfectly. He’s praised for his versatility and ability to line up across the defensive line, showcasing power and leverage. Not only does he set the edge with authority, but he also presses the attack relentlessly from start to finish.

Proven Production Data

Williams started two seasons at Georgia, where his stats might not fully reflect his impact. Despite averaging just 33.5 snaps per game—much lower compared to other prospects—his numbers still shine. In 2022, he recorded 38 tackles and 4.5 sacks, and in 2024, he showed continued growth with 21 tackles and 5.0 sacks. His PFF run defense grade was stellar, ranking 11th in the nation with an 86.2.

Room for Improvement

While he excels in several areas, Williams has room for growth—particularly in his pass-rushing techniques. His upright play might limit effectiveness initially. Still, many of these issues stem from a lack of experience, and with the right coaching, he can refine his craft.

Character and Grit That Stand Out

Williams's grit goes beyond his physical abilities. Georgia coach Kirby Smart highlighted his exceptional work ethic and leadership qualities, stating that there’s no substitute for his value in the locker room. His relentless dedication earned him a solid Tier 2 ranking in the Grit Index among EDGE players.

Will He Be Available at Pick 28?

Initially, some speculated that Williams's under-the-radar production might allow him to slide down to the Lions. However, recent buzz suggests he’s a hot commodity, making it likely Detroit will need to trade up to secure him. NFL insiders are drawing comparisons between Williams and past top picks, suggesting he has the potential for a stellar career.

The Bottom Line: Make the Trade!

If the Lions truly want a player who fits their defensive scheme and fulfills a critical long-term need, they should consider moving up in the draft to snag Mykel Williams. With such high potential and a play style that could invigorate the Lions' defensive line, making an aggressive move for him is undoubtedly worth it.