The Detroit Lions couldn't keep the foot on the gas last season. Clearly, losing Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson took a toll on both sides of the field, but it may have hit the offense a bit harder. However, that regression went beyond the offensive coordinator.
The Lions' once-sturdy offensive line took a bit of a step back last season. The team was somewhat forced to overhaul that unit this season, given Frank Ragnow's retirement and Taylor Decker's request for his release.
The team has made some solid moves to address that issue and, on paper, they should return to their dominant ways in 2026. According to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, that should be a point of emphasis in training camp:
"The Lions’ rugged identity under Dan Campbell was forged in large part by the NFL’s best offensive line," Breer wrote. "...And the retooling through this offseason—with Cade Mays now aboard to take Frank Ragnow’s old spot at center, and pro-ready first-round right tackle Blake Miller kicking Penei Sewell back to his college position on the left side—is good evidence of how serious Detroit was about fixing it. So camp will be very important for that group, and well-regarded line coach Hank Fraley."
The Lions' offensive line can make or break Detroit's season
The Lions used a first-round pick on Clemson's Blake Miller, hoping he can be their right tackle of the future. Needless to say, he has some massive shoes to fill, especially since his arrival forced Penei Sewell to move back to the left side.
Like all rookies, he might need some time to get his legs under him and get a hold of the physicality and speed of the pro game. Still, it shouldn't be long before he establishes himself as an every-down guy and the clear-cut starter.
Forcing the best player at his position to switch sides isn't easy. That said, if someone can excel at that, it's definitely Penei Sewell. Muscle memory is there, and he was already used to dealing with the toughest defensive assignments anyway.
The Lions' offense is all about rhythm, and giving Jared Goff enough time to move around in the pocket and go through his progressions will be crucial. He's never been the most efficient guy once the pressure gets to him, and he's not necessarily mobile, so blindside protection will be paramount to keep the chains in motion.
The game of football has come a long way over the years, but the fundamentals stay the same. Whoever imposes its will in the trenches will dictate the pace of the game, and that's something the Lions have thrived on for most of the Dan Campbell era.
The personnel might have changed, but the idea remains. This team has built a brick wall to keep their quarterback out of harm's way. Now, they have to get as many reps together as possible to get a jump-start and be ready when it actually counts.
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