Detroit Lions defensive lineman Mekhi Wingo didn’t get the season he hoped for in Year 2, but he never stopped working, never stopped preparing, and never lost faith in himself.
The former sixth-round pick appeared in only two games this season, while spending most weeks as a healthy scratch behind a deep interior rotation of DJ Reader, Alim McNeill, Roy Lopez, and rookie Tyleik Williams. For a player who’s always been on the field throughout his football career, the experience was humbling — and, at times, difficult.
“It was actually really tough for me,” Wingo admitted via Lions OnSI. “Not being able to play a lot this year. It’s the first time ever in my career, just sitting back and watching, even in high school. I’ve always had a lot of immediate impact on the game. So, just sitting back watching, it was tough. Didn’t complain, worked hard and practiced, lifted a lot in the weight room. So, I just stayed a professional, you know?”
Wingo returned to action in the regular-season finale, logging 22 defensive snaps and five special teams snaps. Even a small taste of live football meant something to him.
“It was very exciting, man,” Wingo said. “Just to have another opportunity to get back on the field and be out there with my brothers, so that’s fine.”
Veteran Leaders Helped Guide Him Through the Year
Wingo leaned heavily on Detroit’s veteran defensive linemen, not just for football advice, but for personal growth as well.
“They talked how to attack every day. Staying composed with everything that you do,” Wingo shared. “They were great guys, great leaders. So, I mean, they taught me life lessons as well as football. They taught me a lot.”
Focused on Growth, Not Frustration
Instead of viewing the season as a setback, Wingo says he’s treating it like a learning experience.
He plans to train this offseason at Excel 360 in St. Louis and in San Diego, rotating through multiple locations as he prepares for Year 3.
He also spoke highly of defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, and believes the two will continue to grow together.
“He has a great defensive mind and he’s a great leader,” Wingo said. “He’s definitely a leader of men. I feel like that’s a trait you have to have, being a coordinator at any level. So, he was great in that aspect. As we continue to grow, he’ll continue to grow with us. That is why are we good.”
Bottom Line
Mekhi Wingo didn’t pout. He didn’t point fingers. He didn’t disappear.
He worked, waited, and handled the season like a pro, and the Lions noticed.
If he continues trending upward, his opportunity may be coming sooner rather than later.
