Detroit Lions' Offensive Line: From Elite To Under Construction?

David

3 min read

Post on Jul 26, 2025

4.9

Share

Detroit Lions' Offensive Line: From Elite to Under Construction?

The Detroit Lions' resurgence in 2022 was undeniable, fueled by a potent offense spearheaded by a surprisingly strong offensive line. But as the 2023 season approaches, questions linger: has the offensive line, once a cornerstone of the team's success, become a work in progress? The answer, unfortunately, appears to be a nuanced yes.

While the Lions' offensive line boasted impressive performances last season, paving the way for a prolific rushing attack and protecting Jared Goff effectively for much of the year, significant changes and concerns have emerged. This isn't necessarily a disaster, but it certainly shifts the narrative from "elite" to "under construction."

The Departures and Additions: A Shifting Landscape

The offseason saw the departure of key players, most notably center Frank Ragnow's injury concerns. While Ragnow remains on the roster, his injury history casts a shadow over the line's stability. Coupled with other roster moves, this creates uncertainty. The Lions front office has actively sought to address these gaps, drafting and signing players to bolster the depth. However, translating potential into on-field performance remains the crucial challenge. The success of these new additions will be pivotal to determining the line's overall effectiveness in the upcoming season.

• Key Departures: While not all departures were significant, the cumulative effect on experience and cohesion is noteworthy. The Lions will need younger players to step up.
• Key Additions: The Lions' draft strategy and free agency signings reflect a commitment to rebuilding depth and competition along the offensive line. Time will tell how these new players integrate into the team's offensive scheme.

The Importance of the Offensive Line in the Lions' Success

The offensive line isn't just about protecting the quarterback; it's the foundation of the Lions' running game. The team's rushing attack thrived last season largely due to the line's ability to create running lanes for players like D'Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams. If the line falters, the entire offense could suffer, impacting the team's overall performance. This underscores the urgency of addressing any weaknesses before the season begins.

This highlights a critical aspect of the Lions' success: a strong offensive line directly translates to victories. Their ability to protect Goff and open holes for the running backs is fundamental to their overall strategy.

Looking Ahead: Can the Lions Rebuild Their Offensive Line Successfully?

The Lions' success in 2023 hinges significantly on the performance of their offensive line. While the team’s front office has made moves to address the concerns, the jury remains out. The upcoming training camp and preseason games will be crucial in evaluating the line's cohesion and effectiveness. The coaching staff's ability to integrate the new players and develop the existing talent will determine whether the line can return to its former glory or continue its journey from “elite” to a more reliable, if not quite as dominant, unit.

The question isn't whether the Lions can rebuild their offensive line – but rather how quickly and how effectively they can do so. This will be a storyline to watch closely throughout the 2023 NFL season. Are they truly under construction, or simply undergoing a necessary renovation? Only time will tell.

Call to Action: What are your predictions for the Detroit Lions' offensive line in 2023? Share your thoughts in the comments below!