The Detroit Lions strengthened their defensive line in the NFL Draft, potentially putting a veteran defensive tackle’s roster spot in jeopardy.
Despite re-signing Levi Onwuzurike to a one-year, $5.5 million deal in March, Sterling Xie of Pro Football Network predicted the veteran could struggle to make the final roster this summer. The Lions face tough defensive decisions, and Onwuzurike might fall on the wrong side of the roster bubble.
Rookie Threatens Onwuzurike’s Roster Spot
Xie pointed out that Detroit has stockpiled defensive line talent, including first-round pick Tyleik Williams and several proven veterans.
“Although edge rusher might loom as a bigger need, the Detroit Lions now have plenty of beef on the interior of the defensive line,” Xie wrote. “First-round DT Tyleik Williams profiles as a plug-and-play option from Day 1. D.J. Reader and Roy Lopez are reliable veteran run-stuffers as well, while big edge rushers like Brodric Martin and Josh Paschal can kick inside on passing downs.”
He explained that this crowded interior could squeeze Onwuzurike off the depth chart. The former second-round pick has underperformed, failing to meet expectations.
While Xie mentioned that Onwuzurike could become a trade piece, he also noted the Lions might retain him for depth, especially given the injury problems the defense faced in 2024.
“The only question is the recovery timeline from Alim McNeill, as the Lions may not want to leave themselves short-handed on the interior if McNeill is expected to miss most of 2025,” Xie wrote. “However, if Onwuzurike fails to impress in the preseason, the Lions might be better served getting a Day 3 pick in return instead of cutting him.”
Onwuzurike, 27, has had a rocky career in Detroit, missing the 2022 season with injury and appearing in only 42 games since 2021. He posted his best season last year, starting 10 games and recording 28 tackles with 1.5 sacks.
Lions Expect Rookie to Anchor Defensive Line
Williams poses the biggest threat to Onwuzurike’s role. The first-round pick has already drawn high praise from within the organization.
Lions assistant general manager Ray Agnew believes Williams has tremendous potential and could quickly become a cornerstone of the defense.
“This kid’s got a lot of upside,” Agnew said, via The Athletic. “I don’t think he’s reached his full potential yet. He’s got a chance to be a really, really good player for us. We were excited he was there for us to pick him. Great player.
He’s got a chance to be a really, really good run player. I think he’s underrated as a pass rusher. …This kid has a chance to be a force in the middle. As a defense, if you’re not good in the middle, you’re not very good. This guy will help us, man.”
