By Moses Joshua 
Interior Offensive Line Concerns Quietly Loom as Camp Approaches
On the surface, the Detroit Lions look like one of the most complete teams heading into the 2025 NFL season. With a loaded roster and legitimate Super Bowl aspirations, few outside observers are raising red flags. But beneath the optimism, one underrated issue could force GM Brad Holmes to make a roster move sooner than later.
The Real Concern Isn’t on the Edge
Much of the preseason speculation has centered around Detroit’s pass rush, especially after Aidan Hutchinson’s season-ending injury last year. However, with Hutchinson returning to form, Marcus Davenport healthy, and Za’Darius Smith possibly rejoining the team, the edge is no longer viewed as a high-priority concern.
“While an edge-rusher might seem like the obvious move here,” wrote Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder, “Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport will be back this season. Also, Za’Darius Smith has expressed interest in returning to the Lions even after being a salary-cap casualty this offseason.”
Instead, analysts are turning their attention to the offensive interior—a position group that has quietly lost one of its most vital pieces.
Ragnow’s Retirement Leaves a Void
The sudden retirement of Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow earlier this summer left a noticeable gap in the trenches. While the Lions have tried to prepare, developing rookies like Christian Mahogany and Tate Ratledge, and signing veteran Trystan Colon, the question remains: is it enough?
Holder highlighted the concern in his report, noting that “swinging a deal for a veteran would be a smart move for an expected Super Bowl contender.” It’s a fair point. As promising as Detroit’s young interior linemen may be, relying solely on rookies in the heart of the offense is risky for a team with championship-level pressure.
Free Agents Offer Immediate Stability
While trades remain on the table, the most realistic short-term solution may come through free agency. Several seasoned guards are still available and could bring valuable experience and leadership to Detroit’s interior line.
Brandon Scherff headlines that list. A five-time Pro Bowler and former first-team All-Pro, Scherff could immediately step in as a stabilizing presence. Shaq Mason, another proven veteran, brings two Super Bowl rings and 146 starts to the table—making him a dependable short-term answer.
Will Hernandez is another intriguing option. At just 29 years old with 91 NFL starts, he offers a younger, but still battle-tested, alternative to reinforce the unit.
Holmes Has a Quiet Decision to Make
Though Detroit may not be in panic mode, GM Brad Holmes could soon be faced with an uncomfortable truth: the offensive interior might be the team’s Achilles’ heel heading into training camp. And while no blockbuster move is expected, the Lions may need to add a veteran before the season kicks off—if only to give Jared Goff the protection he’ll need to make a deep playoff run.
Bottom Line: Detroit has built a contender, but championship windows are fragile. If the offensive line falters, so could their title hopes. Brad Holmes might not have a choice—action may be required sooner than expected.