The Detroit Lions remain a top contender in the NFC this season but it feels like they’ve lost more than they’ve gained from last year’s team. Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn both left for head coaching jobs and top cornerback Carlton Davis walked out the door in free agency. Frank Ragnow’s surprising retirement shook up the Lions even more and left them with several holes to fill this year.
While Dan Campbell and his staff have their work cut out for them, there are a few additions that can help soften the blow. It includes a surprising draft pick that could have immediate dividends as he ascends to the starting lineup next season.
The Lions Decision to Draft Tate Ratledge Is Already Paying Off
The Lions made Georgia guard Tate Ratledge their second-round selection in this year’s draft and it wasn’t surprising. The Athletic’s Dane Brugler noted in his draft guide titled “The Beast” that Ratledge is “a self-described dirtbag” and with Kevin Zeitler’s departure to the Tennessee Titans, it seemed like the 24-year-old had a clear path to a starting job.
But it turned out the Lions had another plan in mind. Ratledge and fellow draft pick Miles Frazier began cross-training at center during rookie minicamp. While the move was labeled as a chance to create flexibility in case of an emergency, the Lions had one brewing as Ragnow expressed unhappiness with his contract.
That situation ended in Ragnow’s retirement and left Detroit trying to replace a four-time Pro Bowler in the middle of their offensive line. While Graham Glasgow also has been taking reps at center during OTAs it may be easier to mold a new piece of clay, giving Ratledge the inside track to replace Ragnow.
By starting Ratledge at center, it gives Detroit a chance to get creative with both guard spots. Jonah Jackson was the starting left guard at the end of last season but the Lions are prepared to move forward with 2024 sixth-round pick Christian Mahogany and Frazier behind him. Campbell also mentioned that left tackle Giovanni Manu could kick inside to guard but he’s currently listed as the backup behind Taylor Decker.
The right side of the line is held down by Glasgow but Frazier could jump to the other side with Kayode Awosika battling for a roster spot. It still leaves two new starters on the offensive line but could ease the transition for a rookie center taking over one of the best offenses in the league.
If Ragnow remained, Ratledge would have been a great pick to replace Zeitler at right guard. But with Ragnow’s retirement, Ratledge’s value goes through the roof, giving Detroit the insurance they may not have known they needed at the beginning of the offseason. It’s a storyline that will play out throughout OTAs, training camp and the early portion of the upcoming year.