The 2025 NFL Combine is right around the corner, and for the Detroit Lions, one position group worth watching closely is the interior offensive line. With on-field drills set to take place on Sunday, March 2, general manager Brad Holmes and the Lions’ scouting team will be evaluating potential long-term solutions at guard and center.
The Need for Reinforcements
Detroit carried six interior offensive linemen in 2024, and while Frank Ragnow, Graham Glasgow, and Christian Mahogany remain under contract, key players like Kevin Zeitler (unrestricted free agent), Kayode Awosika (restricted free agent), and Michael Niese (exclusive rights free agent) are question marks. Zeitler, at nearly 35 years old, may return for another year, but the Lions need to start planning for the future.
Glasgow, 33, has been a reliable presence, but if Detroit wants long-term stability, adding young talent to pair with the 24-year-old Mahogany makes sense. The good news? There are plenty of intriguing prospects in this year’s draft.
What to Watch at the Combine
The Lions prioritize athleticism, size, strength, and intelligence in their offensive linemen. Detroit’s scheme requires versatility in both gap and zone blocking, meaning players who excel in lateral movement, balance, and reaction speed will be highly valued.
Some key traits to keep an eye on during on-field drills:
Balance and knee bend (avoiding waist bending)
Lateral movement and agility (especially in the kick slide and lateral shuffle drills)
Explosiveness in pull and drive drills
Reaction time under pressure
Top Guard Prospects to Watch
Tyler Booker, Alabama (6’5″, 352 lbs)
A powerful, well-rounded interior lineman, Booker is expected to go in the first round. He possesses a blend of finesse and strength, making him a potential fit for Detroit at left or right guard.
Tate Ratledge, Georgia (6’6″, 317 lbs)
A “bully in the trenches,” Ratledge brings an aggressive edge to the right guard position. His physicality and toughness make him an intriguing option for Detroit’s power-run game.
Clay Webb, Jacksonville State (6’3″, 310 lbs)
A former five-star recruit, Webb has the talent but may need time to develop. He could be a mid-to-late Day 3 selection with upside at guard or center.
Versatile Linemen with Tackle Experience
Grey Zabel, North Dakota State (6’5.5″, 316 lbs)
A multi-position lineman with experience at left tackle, right tackle, and both guard spots, Zabel is an excellent athlete who could be a swing lineman early in his career before developing into a starter.
Donovan Jackson, Ohio State (6’4″, 318 lbs)
A mauling run blocker with the ability to play left tackle, Jackson might be best suited for guard in the NFL. His skill set aligns well with the Lions’ scheme.
Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona (6’4″, 339 lbs)
A powerful lineman with experience at right guard and right tackle, Savaiinaea thrives in the run game and could be a strong fit for Detroit’s interior.
Center Prospects to Consider
Seth McLaughlin, Ohio State (6’4″, 300 lbs)
Primarily a center, McLaughlin’s athleticism could allow him to play guard as well. He’s dealing with an injury, which could drop his stock, making him a potential steal.
Jonah Monheim, USC (6’4″, 307 lbs)
A versatile lineman with experience at center, guard, and tackle, Monheim’s ability to execute in both gap and zone schemes could make him a valuable depth piece for Detroit.
Final Thoughts
The Lions have a solid foundation on the interior offensive line, but with aging veterans and expiring contracts, the 2025 NFL Draft presents an opportunity to add young talent. The Combine will be crucial in evaluating which prospects fit Detroit’s mold, and Brad Holmes will have plenty of options to consider.
Who do you think the Lions should target in the draft? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
2025 NFL Combine: 12 Interior OL Prospects Lions Should Keep an Eye On
