The Detroit Lions officially kick off their 2025 preseason schedule on Thursday night when they square off against the Los Angeles Chargers in the annual Hall of Fame Game. Unfortunately, they will be without the services of a pair of newcomers that fans are eager to see take the field.
It is typical for veterans to sit out the Hall of Fame Game, as it is simply an additional exhibition on the calendar for the two teams participating in the event. More often than not, though, fans get the opportunity to see rookies take the field for the first time as they look to get a glimpse of what the future will hold.
That won't be happening for at least a pair of Lions draft picks from this past April, and Detroit head coach Dan Campbell said as much during a recent media session.
#Lions coach Dan Campbell says rookies Tyleik Williams and Tate Ratledge probably won't play against the Chargers on Thursday night.
— Nolan Bianchi (@nolanbianchi) July 29, 2025
Lions Likely Holding Tyleik Williams, Tate Ratledge Out of 1st Preseason Game
While there will be plenty of youngsters who take the field on Thursday night in Canton, Ohio, the Lions will likely be without the services of Tyleik Williams and Tate Ratledge, Detroit's top two picks from the 2025 NFL Draft. Head coach Dan Campbell hinted at those two sitting out in media availability during practice.
Williams, a DT out of Ohio State, and Ratledge, an OG out of Georgia, are expected to play major roles for the Lions this season. Preserving their health in a game that means less than the typical preseason matchup makes sense.
As great as it would be to see those two get reps in against live opposition, the risk outweighs the reward when there are still an additional three preseason matchups on the schedule. There is no doubt that the two will get their turns at facing the opposition outside of their teammates sooner rather than later.
When that time comes, Williams and Ratledge will likely be chomping at the bit to get to work.