Training Camp Spotlight: Lions’ Interior O-Line Battle Set to Shape 2025 Season

The Detroit Lions are gearing up for a pivotal training camp after their best season in franchise history ended in playoff heartbreak. Following a 15-win campaign and an NFC No. 1 seed, Detroit’s defense collapsed in the postseason, prompting changes on the sidelines and in the roster.

This offseason, both coordinators departed for head coaching jobs, and the Lions restocked their staff with John Morton and Kelvin Sheppard. Meanwhile, free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft reshaped key parts of the roster — none more critical than the interior offensive line.

Interior Offensive Line Battle Heats Up

The Lions’ biggest question entering camp centers on who will replace retired All-Pro center Frank Ragnow. His surprise retirement in June left Detroit scrambling to fill the heart of one of the league’s top offensive lines. Compounding the issue, the right guard spot was already set for a heated competition.

The team drafted Tate Ratledge in the second round and Miles Frazier in the fifth, both potential long-term solutions. Ratledge began practicing at center during rookie minicamp, acknowledging the steep learning curve of shifting from guard: “You gotta say a lot more… know the safety rotation… at center, you’re telling everybody else where to go.”

Yet veteran Graham Glasgow, who has experience at both center and guard, remains the favorite to start immediately. Drafted by Detroit in 2016, Glasgow has logged significant snaps at center in recent years and offers the Lions stability during a crucial season.

Other Contenders and Dark Horses

Christian Mahogany projects as the early favorite for one of the guard spots. But behind him, several players could make waves during camp: rookie Miles Frazier, free-agent addition Trystan Colon, and versatile veterans Kayode Awosika and Netane Muti.

Frazier’s profile is reminiscent of Mahogany, a late-round pick who exceeded expectations. Awosika’s familiarity with Detroit’s scheme could prove valuable, while Colon, signed after Ragnow’s retirement, brings experience at both guard and center — giving him a legitimate shot at the roster.

What’s Next

Ultimately, the competition will come down to performance during training camp and preseason games. Lions fans should watch snap counts and reps closely — especially for Ratledge’s development at center — as Detroit works to solidify the foundation of its offense ahead of a season with sky-high expectations.

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