The Detroit Lions still have uncertainty along their offensive line, and bringing back a familiar veteran on a team-friendly deal remains a realistic option more than two weeks into free agency.
Bleacher Report analyst Kristopher Knox recently suggested a reunion with Kevin Zeitler. Zeitler spent the 2024 season in Detroit, starting all 16 games he played and helping the team secure the NFC North title and the conference’s No. 1 seed.
Knox pointed out that despite being 36, Zeitler remains a dependable interior lineman. He was ranked 13th among all guards for the 2025 season, making a return to Detroit a logical fit given his past impact with the team.
Zeitler, who made the Pro Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens in 2023, played last season with the Tennessee Titans on a one-year, $9 million deal. His projected value for 2026 is around $9.2 million on another short-term contract.
Across a 14-year career that includes stints with multiple teams, Zeitler has earned a total of $107.5 million.
A potential signing would directly address one of Detroit’s biggest concerns heading into 2026. The Lions’ offensive line slipped from fourth in 2024 to 12th in 2025, with the departures of Zeitler and retired center Frank Ragnow having a significant impact. Replacements like Christian Mahogany and Graham Glasgow struggled, grading poorly over the season.
According to Pro Football Focus analyst Zoltán Buday, Detroit’s reworked line failed to match previous performance levels. Constant injuries also disrupted continuity, with 13 different linemen playing at least 10 snaps during the season.
The interior issues contributed to quarterback Jared Goff being sacked 38 times in 2025—a career-high.
One positive, however, was rookie guard Tate Ratledge, who stood out particularly in run blocking. His 73.5 run-blocking grade ranked 12th among all guards and second among rookies.
Detroit Lions Linked to $107.5M Reunion Move Fans Didn’t See Coming
