“From Powerhouse to Project: Detroit Lions’ Once-Elite Offensive Line Now a Work in Progress Entering New NFL Season”
The Detroit Lions entered the 2024 NFL season with lofty expectations, driven by their gritty playoff run and dominant offensive line that had become the foundation of the team’s resurgence. A year prior, Detroit’s front five were widely regarded as one of the most cohesive and fearsome units in all of football, opening up gaping holes for the run game and giving quarterback Jared Goff ample time to operate. But as the calendar flipped to 2025, the narrative surrounding the Lions’ offensive line shifted from dominance to uncertainty. Injuries, roster turnover, and uncharacteristic inconsistency have turned what was once a strength into a work in progress. Now, Detroit finds itself in a position where it must reestablish its identity in the trenches if it hopes to remain a contender in the NFC.
A year ago, the Lions boasted a front that included elite names like Frank Ragnow, Penei Sewell, Taylor Decker, Jonah Jackson, and Graham Glasgow — all five contributing to a line that ranked near the top of the league in both pass protection and run blocking efficiency. The chemistry they had built over multiple seasons translated into tangible success on the field. Detroit’s offense finished among the league leaders in total yards and scoring, much of which was credited to the foundation laid by the offensive line. They bullied defensive fronts, controlled time of possession, and allowed Detroit’s offense to dictate the pace of games. However, what seemed like a rock-solid core has gradually developed fissures.
Injuries have been at the heart of the Lions’ regression in this department. Frank Ragnow, the centerpiece of the unit and one of the best centers in the game, has battled through multiple lower-body ailments that have limited his effectiveness and availability. While his toughness and leadership remain unquestioned, the physical toll is undeniable. When Ragnow is less than 100 percent, the trickle-down effect disrupts communication, assignments, and the rhythm of the entire offensive front. Jonah Jackson, too, has missed time due to nagging injuries, and Taylor Decker’s durability has become a growing concern. For a unit that relied so heavily on continuity and synchronization, these disruptions have been deeply damaging.
Beyond injuries, the Lions also faced the inevitability of roster turnover. Graham Glasgow, who rejoined the team and served as a stabilizing force at right guard, is aging and not the long-term answer. With expiring contracts and cap considerations looming, Detroit made tough decisions about who to retain and who to let walk. In doing so, they’ve introduced younger, less experienced players into the mix. While the front office remains optimistic about the long-term development of these prospects, the growing pains have been evident. Offensive line play demands instinctive cohesion — the kind that only comes from repetition and live reps. The Lions’ line, once defined by its veteran savvy, now features more question marks than exclamation points.
Penei Sewell continues to be a bright spot. The former Oregon standout is developing into one of the premier tackles in the league. His athleticism, power, and tenacity have made him a cornerstone player for the franchise. But even Sewell has shown signs of pressing, trying to compensate for lapses elsewhere along the line. When one link in the chain falters, even a player of Sewell’s caliber can’t mask the deficiencies. Defensive coordinators have taken notice, dialing up more stunts and blitz packages to exploit Detroit’s interior vulnerabilities. As a result, Goff has faced increased pressure, and the run game has been less consistent.
The ripple effects have been seen in Detroit’s offensive output. The Lions have struggled to convert third-and-short situations, a stark contrast from last season when they bullied their way to first downs. The red-zone efficiency has dipped, with defenders able to penetrate more easily and disrupt plays before they develop. For a team built around a physical identity, these setbacks are not just statistical — they’re psychological. The offensive line has long been a point of pride for Detroit, a symbol of its blue-collar ethos. To see it falter is to watch the heart of the team take a hit.
Head coach Dan Campbell, known for his no-nonsense, hard-nosed approach, has not shied away from the issue. In press conferences, he’s acknowledged that the line isn’t where it needs to be. He’s also emphasized that improvement is within reach. Offensive line coach Hank Fraley remains one of the most respected position coaches in the league, and the Lions have shown in the past that they can mold cohesive units out of chaos. The coaching staff continues to experiment with combinations, hoping to strike the right balance of youth and experience, aggression and discipline.
The front office has also responded by investing in depth. The 2025 NFL Draft saw the Lions take two offensive linemen in the early rounds — players viewed as developmental prospects with high ceilings. They’ve also added veterans on short-term deals, hoping to patch holes and provide mentorship. While these moves may not yield instant dividends, they speak to a long-term vision that prioritizes sustainability in the trenches. Detroit knows that their path to success runs through the offensive line. Rebuilding that unit, even on the fly, remains a top priority.
Jared Goff’s performance is intricately tied to the success of the line. At his best, Goff is a poised, accurate passer who can dissect defenses when given time. When hurried, however, his limitations become more apparent. The offensive line’s inconsistency has forced Goff into more hurried throws and off-script plays — situations he is less suited for. The run game, led by the dynamic duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, has also suffered. While both backs have flashed brilliance, the lack of consistent push up front has limited explosive opportunities. This domino effect has made Detroit’s offense more predictable and less dynamic.
Despite the challenges, there is no sense of panic within the Lions’ locker room. This is a team that has overcome adversity before. Players have openly expressed confidence that the line will regain its form. Taylor Decker has taken on a more vocal leadership role, urging the younger players to embrace the grind and learn from their mistakes. Frank Ragnow, despite his physical setbacks, continues to set the tone with his preparation and grit. Penei Sewell’s rise provides a beacon of hope — a reminder that elite talent still resides in the unit.
Detroit’s fan base, one of the most loyal and passionate in the NFL, has responded with a mix of concern and optimism. They’ve seen enough growth over the past two seasons to believe that the Lions are on the right trajectory. But they also understand that without a dominant offensive line, the team’s ceiling is limited. For a franchise hungry for postseason success, that reality stings. The margin for error in the NFC is razor thin, and offensive line play is often the difference between winning and watching from home in January.
The upcoming schedule offers both challenges and opportunities. The Lions will face some of the league’s fiercest defensive fronts, providing a litmus test for their progress. At the same time, matchups against more manageable opponents offer a chance to build confidence and rhythm. The coaching staff has made it clear that the focus will remain on fundamentals — hand placement, footwork, communication. They know that flashy plays mean little without winning the battle up front.
As the season progresses, the Lions’ offensive line story will be one to watch. Will they rediscover the magic that made them elite just a season ago? Or will they continue to struggle, dragging down an otherwise promising roster? The answer may define not only the team’s success this year but also its identity moving forward. In a league where games are won in the trenches, Detroit’s mission is clear: turn this work in progress back into a powerhouse. The road won’t be easy, but if there’s one thing this franchise has shown under Dan Campbell, it’s that they won’t back down from a fight. The Detroit Lions are building something — and it still starts in the trenches.
