Ohio State defensive lineman Tyleik Williams is a potential Day 2 pick the Denver Broncos should target to strengthen their defensive front
The Denver Broncos made significant strides on defense in 2024, with Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph playing a key role in their transformation. The additions of Malcom Roach and John Franklin-Myers bolstered the defensive front, helping turn the unit into one of the NFL’s best.
Head Coach Sean Payton and General Manager George Paton have repeatedly emphasized the importance of reinforcing their strengths in the trenches heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. With several key defensive linemen nearing contract extensions after next season, this approach appears to be a wise strategy.
One Day 2 prospect I’m high on is Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams. A four-year Buckeye with two seasons as a starter, he played a crucial role in their National Championship run last season. As a senior, he recorded 46 tackles, including 8 for loss, along with 2.5 sacks.
Standing at 6’3” and 334 pounds, Williams is a dominant presence best known for his elite run defense and ability to create opportunities for his teammates. Let’s take a closer look at his strengths, weaknesses, and why the Broncos should consider drafting him in April.
Player Profile: Tyleik Williams — Defensive Tackle — Ohio State
Height: 6’3” | Weight: 334 pounds | Arm Length: 32” | Hand Size: 10-1/4”
Athletic Testing Scores: Williams participated in drills at the NFL Combine but suffered a fall during the 40-yard dash at Ohio State’s Pro Day, preventing him from completing the remaining drills. As a result, no Relative Athletic Score (RAS) is available.
College Statistics: Over 51 games at Ohio State, Williams amassed 136 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, one fumble recovery, and one forced fumble
Game Tape & Key Plays
Hart’s Evaluation Report
Strengths:
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Possesses a powerful frame and strong hands, showcasing exceptional strength at the line of scrimmage.
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Among the top run stoppers in the draft, consistently disrupting plays in the backfield.
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Remarkably agile for his size, with an explosive first step off the line.
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Displays impressive lateral movement when defending outside runs.
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Took on the tough, unglamorous assignments for Ohio State’s defense, creating opportunities for teammates.
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Versatile enough to line up at multiple spots along the Broncos’ defensive front.
Weakness:
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Inconsistent technique and pad level sometimes lead to problems with leverage and holding ground against interior offensive linemen.
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Can struggle with stamina during extended drives and may be limited to a two-down role early in his NFL career.
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Arm length is average for his position.
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Requires improvement and development in pass-rushing techniques.
Ohio State DL Tyleik Williams (#91) with the textbook drop leg technique to hold off the double team, sheds the LT block to make the run stop. His flexibility at his size (6-3, 327) is remarkable. pic.twitter.com/rSHp4uUiLl
— Devin Jackson (@RealD_Jackson) January 21, 2025
Reasons the Denver Broncos should think about selecting Williams
The Broncos already boast a formidable defensive front with D.J. Jones, Zach Allen, and the previously mentioned Franklin-Myers and Roach anchoring their line. While they have some promising developmental players behind them, none possess the game-changing potential that Williams brings to the table.
Although Williams’ athletic testing results were not fully captured at the NFL Combine or his Pro Day, his game tape clearly shows a disruptive force at the line of scrimmage, capable of dominating drives and making impactful plays. He would provide a valuable addition to the Broncos’ defense, strengthening their depth with a solid five-man rotation on the defensive line.
With Allen, Franklin-Myers, and Roach set to hit free agency after the 2025 season, adding another defensive lineman in this year’s draft is essential for the Broncos. Given D.J. Jones’ recent three-year extension, the team may be inclined to target a prospect who is better suited to play end in Vance Joseph’s system.
Ultimately, if the Broncos aim to further bolster their run defense, Williams would be an excellent choice. His size and ability to free up teammates, especially the edge rushers, would enhance Denver’s defensive unit. I’ve graded Williams as a second-round prospect, and he would make a solid pick for the Broncos if available in Day 2.
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