The Detroit Lions bolstered their defensive line during the NFL Draft, and one of the new additions could put a veteran’s roster spot in jeopardy.
Despite re-signing defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike to a one-year, \$5.5 million deal in March, Pro Football Network’s Sterling Xie suggested he may struggle to secure a spot on the final roster. With tough choices ahead on defense, Onwuzurike could find himself on the outside looking in when cuts are made.
Rookie Could Steal Levi Onwuzurike’s Roster Spot
Xie pointed out that the Lions have been steadily building depth along the defensive line, highlighted by the addition of first-round pick Tyleik Williams and several experienced veterans.
“Although edge rusher might be the more pressing need, the Lions now have plenty of size on the interior,” Xie wrote. “First-round defensive tackle Tyleik Williams looks like a Day 1 starter. D.J. Reader and Roy Lopez bring proven run-stopping ability, while bigger edge players like Brodric Martin and Josh Paschal can shift inside on passing downs.”
Xie indicated that the growing competition along the defensive line could make it tough for Levi Onwuzurike to secure a spot on the roster, especially given his underwhelming performance since being drafted in the second round.
Though Xie mentioned Onwuzurike might be a trade candidate, he also acknowledged the Lions could opt to retain him for added depth — a valuable asset considering the slew of defensive injuries the team dealt with in 2024.
Xie noted that Alim McNeill’s recovery timeline could play a key role in the Lions’ decision on Levi Onwuzurike, as the team may hesitate to thin out its interior defensive line if McNeill is projected to miss a significant portion of the 2025 season.
“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.”
Now 27, Onwuzurike has faced a rocky NFL journey, missing the entire 2022 season due to injury and appearing in just 42 games since being selected in 2021. Still, he put together his most productive campaign in 2024, starting 10 games and recording 28 total tackles along with 1.5 sacks.
Lions Have Big Plans for Rookie Defensive Lineman
Onwuzurike’s toughest competition may come from rookie Tyleik Williams, the Lions’ first-round pick who’s already making a strong impression within the organization. Lions assistant general manager Ray Agnew spoke highly of Williams’ potential and forecasted a significant role for him in the near future.
“This kid’s got a lot of upside,” Agnew told 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.”
With Williams on the rise and expectations high, Onwuzurike faces increasing pressure to prove his value and hold onto a spot on the roster.
