Detroit Lions rookie offensive lineman Tate Ratledge is setting the tone for the offseason with one simple message: he wants to be better.
After what he described as a “building block” first season, Ratledge conceded that he didn’t play up to the high standard expected of Detroit’s offensive line — a unit that once ranked among the NFL’s best but struggled at times in 2025. The truth-telling admission from the 2025 second-round pick reflects both maturity and accountability as he heads into Year 2.
📉 Growth After a Rough Start
Ratledge’s rookie campaign began with a tough performance in Week 1, where he was part of an interior line that struggled to protect quarterback Jared Goff and open run lanes. Early in 2025, both Ratledge and classmates on the interior had moments where the unit’s performance dipped well below the levels seen in Detroit’s NFC Championship and 15-2 seasons.
But that isn’t the whole story.
As the season progressed, Ratledge noticeably improved his play. Over the last 12 games of the year, he allowed zero sacks and just four quarterback hits, a solid showing for a rookie adjusting to the permanent speed and power of the NFL trenches. His Pro Football Focus grade (70.2) reflects steady performance, particularly in run blocking where he ranked among the better guards in the league.
Still, Ratledge refuses to rest on those late-season gains.
🧠 Honest Self-Assessment
In speaking with reporters after the season, Ratledge didn’t qualify his own progress with excuses. Instead, he acknowledged that he holds himself to the higher standard that the Lions’ offensive line has set over recent years. “I don’t think I played up to this offensive line’s standard and this team’s standard,” Ratledge said, calling his rookie year “disappointing” by his own benchmarks while also viewing it as a baseline to build on.
He singled out one area for focused improvement: pad level. At 6-foot-6, 315 pounds, Ratledge is one of the taller guards in the league, and proper leverage is critical for success in both pass protection and run blocking. Ratledge and the Lions’ coaching staff identified this as a key technical point to refine during the offseason.
🚀 Lions OL Standard Still a Team Priority
Detroit’s offensive line has been a point of pride for the franchise — a unit that once helped pave the way for high-powered offense and deep playoff runs. A drop to near the bottom of the league in pass-blocking win rate underscored how much work remains for the unit as a whole.
Ratledge’s own fire is mirrored by teammates and coaches. Veterans and young players alike are focused on regaining the physical dominance that once defined this group. That shared hunger bodes well for continuity and accountability up front, especially with potential lineup changes looming next season.
📅 What’s Next for Ratledge
Where Ratledge lines up in 2026 — guard, potential future center, or a mix of both — remains an open question. What isn’t up for debate is his mindset: he’s ready to work.
Detroit’s interior line will be a priority this offseason as the team addresses both performance gaps and roster construction, but Ratledge’s candid assessment serves as a strong starting point. His willingness to critique his own play — and his clear plan for improvement — gives Lions fans reason to be optimistic that one of their most important young blockers is all in on growth.
“A Lot to Improve On”: Tate Ratledge’s Honest Self-Assessment Sparks Hope Upfront
