The five player additions that will define the Detroit Lions season
By Ash Thompson
Frank Ragnow
The Lions had some blocking issues in 2017. The team had the worst rushing attack in the NFL, and Matthew Stafford picked himself up out of the dirt after 47 sacks. The Lions first pick of the 2018 draft, offensive lineman Frank Ragnow will be a strong determinant for the team’s success in 2018.
Ragnow is slated to line up at left guard for the Lions, but he will likely see some time during the preseason at the center position. Graham Glasgow is penciled in as the Lions starter at center, but as Lions fans have seen a lot recently, every player is one unlucky moment from missing half or more of the season.
Ragnow will see a significant number of snaps in week one against Leonard Williams and fellow rookie Nathan Shepard. The New York Jets can put a significant interior pass rush into play against an unprepared team. Ragnow will likely have trouble with Williams on his own. The Jets will do everything they can to engineer this one on one matchup whenever possible. Ragnow needs to be ready immediately.
Against someone like Shepard, however, Ragnow is up to the task. He did not allow a sack during his college career. He never faced Shepard, who was playing for the Fort Hays State. That level of competition jump should put Shepard at a significant disadvantage.
The Lions need continuity and performance along their offensive line this season. Ragnow needs to be a positive influence on both of those in 2018.