Detroit Lions defensive tackle Tyleik Williams is back on the practice field! After taking a hit late in Week 4 and being spotted in a protective walking boot, the man himself says it was “just” a bruised foot, putting him in prime position to play this Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals. This is massive news for a Lions team sitting at 2-2 and needing all their guys on the field.
The Big Man Is Back, Ready To Feast
Williams, number 91, missed Wednesday’s practice which is pretty standard for a player injured the previous week under coach Dan Campbell’s system. But for him to be out there Thursday, even in a limited capacity, shows there’s serious optimism. He told Dave Birkett on October 8, 2026, that he “just bruised his foot, should be good to go Sunday vs the Cardinals.” That’s the kind of confidence you love to hear! It looks like he’ll need a solid Friday practice and then a medical check on Saturday before the team travels to Arizona, but all signs are pointing up for his return. Get ready, Arizona offensive line.
Injury Report Hits: Who’s Out, Who’s Questionable
While Williams’ return is huge, the Lions are still dealing with some nagging injuries. Guard Ben Bartch, dealing with a foot injury, was a no-go at practice on Thursday. He’s now missed eight practices and two games, so it’s fair to assume he’ll be sidelined again this weekend. The good news for him, if there is any, is that the bye week is coming up, giving him extra time to heal up.
Cornerback Rock Ya-Sin is another big concern. He missed his second straight practice due to a hamstring injury, and coach Campbell’s comments earlier this week make his status for the game seriously questionable. If Ya-Sin can’t go, look for rookie Keith Abney and veteran practice squad safety Jalen Mills to step up and get more reps this week.
The Curious Cases of Mays and Branch
Beyond the immediate Sunday question marks, the Lions have a couple of players still working through their evaluation windows on injury lists. Center Cade Mays (wrist, IR) and safety Brian Branch (achilles, PUP) were both limited in practice, each with 19 days remaining in their 21-day evaluation windows. We haven’t heard a ton about Mays’ progress, but Branch? Oh man, he’s been getting all the attention.
Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard was practically gushing about Branch on Thursday. Sheppard said, and I quote, “This dude looked like he hadn’t been out. I’m serious. It looks like he hadn’t been out. It’s unbelievable.” That’s high praise! Apparently, Branch is already looking good enough to play, but the final decision will rest with the Lions’ medical staff.
The Lions (2-2) are heading to Arizona to face the Cardinals (1-3) this Sunday. Getting Tyleik Williams back on the field, even with other guys banged up, could be the spark this team needs to get back above .500 before that bye week. Let’s see if Williams puts that bruised foot to work and helps the Lions get a big W on the road!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pride of Detroit.
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