Detroit Lions 2013 NFL Draft: Complete Draft Grades For The Lions

7th Round, 211th Overall: Michael Williams, TE, Alabama —

Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Overview:

The Lions coached Williams at the Senior Bowl this year — which aided their selections– and met with him during a pre-draft visit earlier this month.  Williams has started 40 games for Alabama over the past four seasons, catching 51 passes for 503 yards and seven touchdowns in his career.

Williams is heralded as the best run blocker tight end in the draft — a craft that has seemingly been forgotten in the pass-happy NFL. With the addition of offensive guard Larry Warford and Williams, the Lions have made a conscious effort to improve their run game.

My Thoughts:

The Lions let tight end Will Heller hit free agency this offseason, and showed no signs of extending an offer towards him. Williams will help on goaline formations along with short yardage situations. I envision the Lions using him as an H-back, allowing him to lead block and leak into the flat, much like a traditional fullback.

Overall, the Lions made a solid pick that gives depth at a position that needed it. But don’t kid yourself, Williams is a rotational tight end with a low ceiling.

Grade: B-