In our ongoing Detroit Lions training camp preview series, we shift our focus to the offensive line to wrap up the offensive side of the ball.
The Detroit Lions have made significant investments in their offensive line over the past eight years, focusing on high-profile draft picks like Penei Sewell, Frank Ragnow, and Taylor Decker, all of whom have contributed greatly to the team’s success. Sewell, particularly, received a substantial contract extension this offseason, reflecting the team’s confidence in his ability.
Despite losing Jonah Jackson in free agency, the Lions quickly addressed the gap by signing Pro Bowler Kevin Zeitler. While Zeitler’s addition raises the average age of the starting offensive line, he brings valuable experience as a powerful run blocker at right guard. This move allows Graham Glasgow, coming off a standout season, to transition back to his natural position at left guard.
The Lions’ starting offensive line is widely regarded as one of the best in the NFL by multiple sources. They also boast depth with returning reserves such as Colby Sorsdal (fifth-round pick in 2023), Dan Skipper, and Kayode Awosika. Additionally, the Lions added Giovanni Manu (fourth round) and Christian Mahogany (sixth round) in this year’s draft to further bolster their offensive line depth.
Beyond Zeitler, the Lions made modest acquisitions in the offensive line during the offseason. They signed Netane Muti from the Raiders in free agency, re-signed Michael Niese, Connor Galvin, and Matt Farniok to futures deals after their stints on the Lions’ 2023 practice squad, and brought in three centers as undrafted free agents: Kingsley Eguakun, Bryan Hudson, and Duke Clemens. This comprehensive approach aims to fortify their offensive line both in terms of starting talent and depth heading into the upcoming season.
Roster construction
Under the leadership of Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes, the Detroit Lions have adhered to a strategy of maintaining a robust offensive line presence on their game-day rosters. The NFL rule incentivizing teams to activate a minimum of eight offensive linemen allows the Lions to expand their game-day roster from 47 to 48 players. Consequently, the team typically carries between eight and nine offensive linemen on their active roster over the past three seasons.
During the 2022 season, the Lions dealt with multiple injuries along the offensive line, prompting them to retain nine linemen on the active roster to ensure depth and flexibility. In contrast, the 2023 season saw them reduce the number to eight linemen while relying on practice squad elevations to cover for injuries on game days. Despite facing setbacks like placing Halapoulivaati Vaitai and Matt Nelson on injured reserve, the Lions adapted by signing linemen from the practice squad and maintaining their structured roster model throughout the season.
The battleground
The Detroit Lions’ approach to roster management emphasizes depth and competition, particularly along the offensive line. Heading into the 2024 season, their strategy of keeping a minimum of eight offensive linemen active on game days remains consistent. However, with recent draft investments, they may expand to carrying nine or even ten linemen.
Among the offensive line reserves, several players stand out as front runners for roster spots:
1. **Colby Sorsdal, RT/G**: Drafted in 2023, Sorsdal offers versatility having played both guard and tackle. He’s shown promise during OTAs and could step in if needed at tackle.
2. **Dan Skipper, T/G**: A veteran with extensive NFL experience, Skipper’s size makes him effective at tackle. He’s competed for starting roles in the past and provides reliable depth.
3. **Kayode Awosika, LG/RG**: Signed from the Eagles practice squad, Awosika has started games at both guard positions and proved himself in critical moments during the playoffs.
4. **Christian Mahogany, RG/LG**: Drafted in 2024, Mahogany arrives with high expectations due to his draft grade and experience in a similar blocking scheme at Boston College.
5. **Giovanni Manu, LT**: A developmental prospect from UBC, Manu is seen as a long-term investment, likely securing a roster spot despite limited immediate impact expectations.
These players represent the likely contenders for reserve roles, with competition expected during training camp. However, several others are vying for recognition and potentially a practice squad spot:
– **Michael Niese, IOL**: Versatile across interior positions, Niese has familiarity with the Lions’ system after a season on their practice squad.
– **Connor Galvin, LT/RT**: An undrafted rookie in 2023, Galvin has shown promise at both tackle spots, making him a sleeper candidate for the roster.
– **Netane Muti, RG/LG**: Joining from the Raiders, Muti adds depth and experience at guard, competing with Mahogany for a roster position.
– **Matt Farniok, OL**: With experience at multiple positions, Farniok brings versatility and athleticism, aiming to impress during camp.
– **Kingsley Eguakun, IOL** and **Bryan Hudson, IOL**: Both players are being cross-trained across interior positions, enhancing their chances of securing spots either on the roster or practice squad.
– **Duke Clemens, IOL**: Known for his pulling ability, Clemens is adapting to the Lions’ system and aiming to showcase his skills during camp.
The Lions’ approach underscores their commitment to building depth and fostering competition along the offensive line, ensuring they’re prepared for any scenario during the season.
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