By Josh 
The Detroit Lions are facing a pivotal offseason decision that could reshape the foundation of their offensive line: reports indicate the team is projected to potentially cut ties with a veteran starter carrying a $20 million contract in the weeks ahead as part of broader roster and cap management discussions.
Veteran Starter in Question
At the center of the speculation is offensive lineman Graham Glasgow, a seasoned interior lineman who signed a three-year, $20 million contract with Detroit in 2024. Glasgow, who started 14 games for the Lions in the 2025 season and has notably been versatile across guard and center positions, has drawn attention from salary-cap analysts as a potential cut candidate.
According to valuation site Over the Cap, Glasgow fits the criteria for clubs looking to reduce salary cap burdens in the offseason. The analysis considers cash due, contract valuation relative to median starter worth, and other metrics that can influence cut lists and Glasgow appears on that list of 100 potential cut candidates for 2026.
Why This Move Is Being Discussed
Several factors are driving the conversation around a potential parting of ways with a veteran like Glasgow:
1. Cap Management Realities:
Even teams with cap space like Detroit review long-term intellectual property (contract) efficiency. Releasing a higher-priced starter can free significant cap space or create flexibility for extensions and new signings.
2. Offensive Line Youth Movement:
The Lions have invested recent draft capital and developmental attention in younger offensive line options. With players like Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge and Miles Frazier in the pipeline, decision-makers may feel comfortable giving younger talent extended opportunities, especially behind established stars.
3. Performance Versus Pay:
While Glasgow’s experience and versatility have value, some performance metrics over the past season were below elite levels relative to other linemen. These grades when combined with age and contract size sometimes push front offices toward tough decisions to balance roster strength with long-term planning.
Alternatives and Bigger Picture
The speculation around Glasgow isn’t occurring in a vacuum. Detroit’s offensive front has been under scrutiny after a 2025 season that delivered solid offensive output but inconsistency in protection during key moments. Should the Lions move forward without Glasgow, the team could explore internal replacements, free-agent options, or draft additions to fortify the line.
It’s also worth noting that such projections are not guarantees. Analysts often stress that names on offseason cut lists may ultimately remain with their teams, especially if injuries arise or roster depth becomes a concern.
What This Means for Detroit’s 2026 Outlook
A decision to release a $20 million veteran starter reflects the broader reality NFL teams face: balancing cap discipline with competitive readiness. For Detroit, it may signal a transition toward a younger, more cost-efficient offensive line core while preserving the ability to pursue talent in free agency or the draft.
For Lions fans and NFL observers alike, the coming weeks will be crucial. Whether Glasgow remains in Detroit or becomes a cap casualty, the team’s strategic direction particularly around offensive line construction will be one of the key narratives of the 2026 offseason.