As we get closer to the start of the regular season, the Detroit Lions will hopefully have their starters locked in on both sides of the ball.
One position of concern for Lions fans a couple of months ago was the center spot. Detroit saw Pro Bowl and All-Pro center Frank Ragnow shockingly retire from the league.
However, the Lions didn’t panic as they had two adequate options in veteran Graham Glasgow and rookie Tate Ratledge. When training camp opened up last month, Ratledge was taking the first-team snaps at center in 11-on-11 drills for the first practice, which was a small indicator of where the Lions could go.
Fast forward a few weeks, and Lions head coach Dan Campbell has already started to mention Ratledge as one of the starters, but not at center after Wednesday’s joint practice.
"I thought Tate Ratledge looked like a starting NFL guard yesterday and it fired me up." - Dan Campbell.
— Justin Rogers | Detroit Football Network (@Justin_Rogers) August 14, 2025
Tate Ratledge Continuing to Make a Strong Impression on Dan Campbell
Campbell told reporters on Thursday that Ratledge looked like a starting NFL guard on Wednesday. Additionally, the Lions' head coach said that Ratledge "fired [him] up," per Justin Rogers of Detroit Football Network.
As you can imagine, Lions fans were excited to hear this about the rookie. If Ratledge can hit the ground running at right guard, while Christian Mahogany takes that next step at left guard, Detroit’s offensive line could be in outstanding shape.
Earlier this summer, the thought was that Ratledge had the skills to be a center, but with Detroit having Glasgow, it allows them to leave the rookie at his natural spot. Since the Lions went to the pads in camp, Detroit has stationed Ratledge at right guard, which is the best move for all parties involved.
The former University of Georgia standout boasts good strength, good discipline, and technique, which are paramount for any offensive lineman.
Ratledge made his preseason debut last week against the Atlanta Falcons, where he played 15 pass-blocking reps. Within those reps, the rookie guard only allowed one pressure across four series, which isn’t bad for a debut.
The Lions are expecting big things from the young lineman this season, and he’s already off to a great start. It will be interesting to see what he can do for an encore performance heading into this week's game against the Dolphins.