By Moses Joshua 
After losing promising rookie Christian Mahogany to injury, Detroit leans on battle-tested veterans to stabilize the trenches and restore protection for Jared Goff.
Veteran Depth Takes Center Stage
The Detroit Lions’ offensive line, long considered one of the team’s biggest strengths, faces a critical test. Sunday’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings exposed major vulnerabilities up front — and the absence of rookie left guard Christian Mahogany, now on injured reserve with a broken bone in his left leg, only heightens the pressure.
According to Next Gen Stats, Jared Goff was pressured on 47.6% of his 42 dropbacks against Minnesota — his highest rate since 2024. The Vikings relentlessly attacked the interior line, exposing a weakness the Lions can’t afford to repeat as they prepare for a pivotal Week 10 clash with the Washington Commanders.
Head coach Dan Campbell made it clear this week that every possible solution is on the table.
“I’ve considered everything,” Campbell said when asked about potential lineup changes, including moving center Graham Glasgow to left guard while inserting veteran Trystan Colon at center.
Glasgow, who started 15 games at left guard last season, said he hadn’t yet discussed the switch with coaches but remained open to anything that helps the team.
“I’m interested in whatever,” Glasgow said.
Awosika Steps Into the Spotlight
While Campbell explores different combinations, the most straightforward plan involves Kayode Awosika stepping directly into Mahogany’s spot. The veteran lineman, who’s been part of the Lions’ system since 2022, has already earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike.
“Yode’s been in this building almost the same time I have, so there’s ultimate trust in that guy,” right tackle Penei Sewell said. “When he comes in, no one skips a beat.”
Left tackle Taylor Decker echoed that confidence, saying Awosika’s experience and consistency give the team reason to believe the transition will be seamless.
“We’ve played a bunch of games (together). I have the utmost confidence in him being able to go out there because he’s put it on tape,” Decker said. “He’s shown that he can perform out there. He’ll be just fine.”
Colon’s “Stay Ready” Mentality
Meanwhile, Trystan Colon remains prepared if his number is called. He’s been quietly mirroring Glasgow’s in-game reads and protection calls from the sideline to ensure a smooth transition if needed.
“It’s the NFL. As a backup offensive lineman in the NFL, you’ve always got to be ready,” Colon said. “Linemen get banged up every year. … When guys start going down and backups have opportunity to play, you always have to stay ready to go.”
Campbell also mentioned other in-house options, including Kingsley Eguakun, emphasizing the staff’s faith in the depth they’ve developed rather than making a late trade.
“Everyone knows that Sunday wasn’t up to our standard, at all,” Sewell admitted. “It was one of our worst performances. We’ve just got to be better … communication-wise and game plan-wise.”
The Big Picture
The Lions are banking on experience and chemistry to guide them through this stretch — not outside reinforcements. For a team still eyeing a deep playoff push, this next man-up mentality will define whether Detroit’s offensive line remains a strength or becomes a liability.
The message from Campbell and his captains is clear: veterans must steady the ship — and fast.