By Mummy Grace 
Pro Football Focus has taken notice, dropping the Lions to No. 13 in their latest O-line rankings. Analyst Zoltan Buday believes this unit is due for one of the biggest declines in the entire league.
> “Perhaps no unit is expected to drop off more in 2025 than the Lions’ offensive line,” Buday wrote. “Detroit still boasts arguably the best run-blocking right tackle in the league in Penei Sewell, but the interior might still hold back this unit.”
That’s a stark contrast from past seasons, when the line was a reliable anchor for Jared Goff and the running game. Now, rookies Christian Mahogany (sixth-round pick) and Tate Ratledge (second-rounder from Georgia) are expected to fill massive shoes without much NFL experience.
Meanwhile, other NFC lines like the Eagles, Bears, Vikings, and even Panthers are now ranked ahead of Detroit—a concerning trend for a team that built its identity on physicality and protection.
But here’s the thing: Lions O-line coach Hank Fraley isn’t panicking. In fact, he’s fired up.
> “We’re going to breed competition,” Fraley said. “When the pads come on, that’s when things separate. I think you’re going to see the best from all these young men.”
Fraley has a reputation for developing under-the-radar talent, and Detroit fans know better than to count out a Dan Campbell-coached group before the pads are on. Training camp will reveal whether this is a true weakness—or just growing pains.
Bottom line: On paper, the Lions’ offensive line is taking heat. But if Mahogany and Ratledge live up to their billing, this unit could surprise folks by midseason.