Tyleik Williams’ Shot Put Record Propels NFL Draft Hopes

MANASSAS, Va. — Tyleik Williams, a standout athlete from Unity Reed High School, shattered the shot put record at Parkside Middle School in 2017, launching him onto the path to becoming an NFL draft prospect. During a dual meet against Reagan Middle School, just weeks into his track career, Williams tossed the shot put 48 feet, 9½ inches, breaking the long-standing record of 46 feet, 5 inches that had remained intact for 18 years.

Chris Schlechte, Williams’ middle school shot put coach, praised the remarkable feat, comparing it to legendary moments in sports like Alex Ovechkin surpassing Wayne Gretzky in NHL goals. Schlechte noted that Williams’ combination of size, skill, and determination set him apart, even when he had no formal training in the event.

Initially encouraged by head track coach James Bricker, Williams, who stood over 6 feet and weighed more than 200 pounds, was urged to join the track team to improve his conditioning for football and basketball. At tryouts, Williams was already tossing the shot put an impressive 38 to 39 feet. Schlechte believed if regionals occurred that day, Williams would have ranked among the top competitors.

In his first competition, he threw just over 44 feet, showcasing significant improvement. Bricker recalled the excitement of the day Williams broke the record; it was a moment of celebration that resonated throughout the school. Schlechte still keeps the score sheet from that memorable day, adorned with his mother’s highlight of Williams’ record-breaking achievement.

Williams capped his track season by helping Parkside secure a regional title. However, despite showing continued potential with throws over 47 feet, he was unable to break his record again. His athletic journey led him to football at Unity Reed, where he has since garnered attention as a prospective second-round draft pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Williams remains in focus, with projections placing him as a valuable defensive tackle candidate. Observers, including Schlechte, recognize his evolution from an eighth-grader with remarkable potential to a highly sought-after collegiate player at Ohio State. Williams’ natural gifts and commitment continue to impress, making him a player to watch this draft season.