The Detroit Lions’ offensive line has long been one of the team’s pillars of success. Over the past several seasons, it has developed into one of the strongest units in the NFL, helping power both the ground game and the passing attack. However, heading into the 2025 season, the Lions are facing potential shakeups on the offensive line, and at this point, it remains unclear who will be starting and where they will line up.
While the Lions have a solid foundation of talent along the offensive line, the 2025 season may bring with it some important changes, whether due to free-agent acquisitions, player development, or internal shifts. Changes like these can affect everything from chemistry to performance, so it’s critical to take a closer look at how the Detroit Lions can navigate these shakeups and what the future of their offensive line might look like.
This article will explore the possible changes coming to the Lions’ offensive line in 2025, why these shakeups are happening, the players who could be involved, and what impact they might have on the team’s performance.
The Current State of the Detroit Lions Offensive Line
Before diving into potential shakeups, it’s important to understand where the Lions’ offensive line stands heading into 2025. As of the 2024 season, Detroit’s offensive line was one of the league’s best units, ranked highly by analysts and metrics for its overall performance. This line has been pivotal in allowing quarterback Jared Goff the time he needs to make plays and giving running backs like Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery room to maneuver.
Here’s a look at the Lions’ key offensive linemen heading into the 2025 season:
1. Taylor Decker (Left Tackle)
Decker has been a consistent force at left tackle for the Lions since being drafted in 2016. His pass protection and ability to control the line of scrimmage in the running game have been central to the Lions’ success. As one of the most experienced players on the line, Decker is one of the team’s leaders and likely to remain a fixture at left tackle in 2025—unless there is a radical shift in the line’s alignment.
2. Jonah Jackson (Left Guard)
Jonah Jackson has solidified himself as a reliable left guard, making his mark in both pass protection and as a run blocker. Jackson’s versatility has also been an asset; he’s been able to shift around and contribute in various ways. While Jackson has been a steady contributor, the 2025 season could bring more competition for his position as the Lions look to solidify the interior of their line.
3. Frank Ragnow (Center)
Ragnow is considered one of the top centers in the NFL. His leadership, ability to control the line of scrimmage, and solid pass protection make him a cornerstone of the offensive line. A healthy Ragnow is integral to the Lions’ offense, and his ability to snap the ball effectively and engage defenders in both the run game and passing game is crucial.
4. Halapoulivaati Vaitai (Right Guard)
Vaitai, who joined the Lions in 2020, has been a dependable presence at right guard. He’s shown himself to be a strong force in the run game, and his ability to protect the quarterback has been solid. However, the Lions have had to juggle his health over the years, and Vaitai has been dealing with some injury setbacks, leaving the team with a sense of uncertainty heading into the future.
5. Penei Sewell (Right Tackle)
Sewell is arguably the crown jewel of the Lions’ offensive line. As a young and dynamic right tackle, Sewell has quickly proven to be a dominant force, earning a spot among the top right tackles in the league. His blend of power, agility, and versatility makes him a future cornerstone for the Lions’ offensive line for years to come.
The Potential Shakeups on the Horizon
Given the strong foundation already in place, it may seem surprising that shakeups are a possibility. However, several factors are contributing to this situation:
- Injuries and Health Concerns
Injuries have been an issue for the Lions’ offensive line in recent seasons, particularly with players like Halapoulivaati Vaitai, who has struggled with back and knee injuries. If Vaitai is unable to stay healthy in 2025, the Lions may need to consider a new approach at right guard, or potentially move other players around to accommodate new additions. - Player Development and Internal Competition
The Lions have invested significant resources into their offensive line, and several younger players have been developing in the background. This includes second-year players or rookies who may be ready to step into key roles. As a result, internal competition will likely push the current starters to either improve or risk losing their positions. - Free Agency and Draft Additions
The Lions may look to the free-agent market or the 2025 NFL Draft to find additional talent. A potential high-draft pick at a key position, like a top-tier guard or tackle, could prompt a reshuffling of the line. Additionally, if the Lions add a veteran free agent to the mix, it could result in changes to the existing lineup. - Scheme Changes
Head coach Dan Campbell and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson could make schematic adjustments in 2025 that could lead to changes in how the offensive line is utilized. A shift to more zone blocking or power running schemes might require different skill sets or player alignments than in previous years.
Likely Shakeups on the Horizon
1. Vaitai’s Future at Right Guard
- As mentioned, Vaitai has been plagued by injuries throughout his time with the Lions, and while he’s been solid when healthy, there’s an increased sense of uncertainty about whether he’ll be able to stay on the field in 2025. If Vaitai struggles to return to full health, the Lions might consider moving on from him or shifting him to a more backup role.
- Potential Solution: The Lions could look at players like Graham Glasgow, a former Lion and current free agent, or Jonah Jackson, who could potentially shift from left guard to right guard. This could also open the door for younger talent like Logan Stenberg or a draft pick to step in and compete for the spot.
2. Possible Move of Penei Sewell to Left Tackle
- Penei Sewell has been a rock-solid right tackle for the Lions, but one of the possible shakeups could involve moving him to left tackle. Taylor Decker, though experienced and reliable, is not getting any younger, and with Sewell’s immense talent and ability to play multiple spots on the line, the Lions may experiment with him at left tackle.
- Potential Solution: If Sewell does move to left tackle, the Lions could look to replace him at right tackle with a free agent or a promising rookie. This would be a major shakeup, but it could solidify both tackle positions for the long term.
3. Depth Competition for Center and Guard
- Frank Ragnow is likely safe at center, but behind him, there could be competition. Tommy Kraemer and Evan Brown, who have been depth players at guard and center, could be asked to step into larger roles if injuries or poor performance affect the starters.
- Potential Solution: If the Lions feel that there is a need to fortify the interior line further, they could target a high-profile free agent or use a draft pick on a versatile lineman who can play guard and center. This would provide more competition for the interior spots, keeping players like Jonah Jackson and Kraemer on their toes.
4. Drafting a Tackle or Guard Early
- Given the potential shakeups along the line, the Lions may very well prioritize the offensive line in the 2025 NFL Draft. A player like Broderick Jones (OT, Georgia) or O’Cyrus Torrence (OG, Florida) could provide depth and competition at critical positions. Adding a draft pick at the right spot could shake up the existing depth chart and give the Lions the flexibility to plug in a rookie early if needed.
- Potential Solution: A first-round pick or second-round pick could help solidify the line for the future, giving the Lions long-term options if any current players don’t meet expectations.
The Impact of Shakeups on the Lions’ 2025 Season
While offensive line shakeups are often seen as a potential disruption, they could have a positive impact on the Lions if handled correctly. Here’s how these changes could affect the team:
- Improved Depth and Flexibility: The addition of new players or a reshuffling of the current unit could provide the Lions with improved depth. Having more capable bodies on the offensive line ensures that they can weather the inevitable injuries that arise during the season.
- Better Competition: Internal competition for starting spots will push players to elevate their game, improving the overall performance of the line. As veteran players fight to keep their positions, younger players will learn and develop faster.
- Long-Term Stability: Finding the right alignment for the future of the offensive line, particularly at left tackle and right guard, will help establish long-term stability. If the Lions can solidify these spots, they will have a strong foundation for years to come, which is crucial for the development of Jared Goff and their running back corps.
