Detroit Lions rookie offensive lineman Tate Ratledge is soaking it all in — from the speed of the NFL to the wisdom of one of the league’s best, Penei Sewell. As the Lions gear up for their Week 1 battle with the Green Bay Packers, Ratledge says his first offseason in Detroit has been a masterclass in what it takes to succeed in the trenches.
“Watching Penei every day has been huge for me,” Ratledge said. “The way he studies, the way he practices — it’s different. I’m learning what being a pro really means.”
Drafted to help bolster an already elite offensive line, Ratledge has been praised for his strength and maturity, but even he admits the transition hasn’t been easy. Going from college football to facing NFL-level defensive fronts is a new challenge — especially with divisional foes like Green Bay waiting right out of the gate.
Still, the rookie sounds ready for the moment. With Dan Campbell and offensive line coach Hank Fraley guiding him, Ratledge is in the perfect environment to grow. And with Penei Sewell as both a mentor and example, Detroit might be grooming another cornerstone for its already dominant offensive line.
“I Couldn’t Ask for a Better Mentor”: Tate Ratledge Talks Rookie Lessons from Penei Sewell
