The Detroit Lions’ offensive line has been one of the NFL’s best in recent seasons, but 2025 brings big changes — not just in Detroit, but across the entire NFC North.
Every team in the division made major moves this offseason to reshape their offensive fronts, creating new questions about which unit now stands tallest in the trenches.
Lions Face Turnover in Key Spots
Detroit lost two key starters: longtime center Frank Ragnow retired, and right guard Kevin Zeitler signed with the Titans. In response, they drafted center Tate Ratledge in the second round and are likely moving Graham Glasgow to center while Christian Mahogany and others compete to fill in the gaps.
The tackles remain a major strength with Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell returning, but there’s no denying the interior is in flux heading into camp.
Chicago Goes All-In
The Bears arguably had the boldest offseason of the group. They handed former Falcons center Drew Dalman a $42 million contract, traded for All-Pro guard Joe Thuney, and stole Jonah Jackson from the Rams. It’s a major investment and could pay off quickly.
Vikings Reload Too
Minnesota wasn’t far behind in reshaping their line. They signed veterans Ryan Kelly and Will Fries from the Colts and spent a first-round pick on guard Donovan Jackson. That’s a strong mix of experience and youth.
Packers Add Firepower
Green Bay got in on the action as well, signing 49ers guard Aaron Banks and reshuffling their interior line in hopes of better protecting Jordan Love.
How They Stack Up
All those moves made a clear impact on the rankings. According to Pro Football Focus, the Lions now sit at 13th overall — and just third in the NFC North. The Bears came in at No. 4, while the Vikings earned a strong No. 7 spot.
That’s a significant shift from recent years, where Detroit’s O-line was the gold standard in the division. It also sets the stage for an intense battle in the trenches once the season kicks off.
PODcast Update
This week’s Pride of Detroit PODcast dives deeper into these rankings and debates how each NFC North line stacks up. The episode also covers predictions for which Lions players will land on the NFL Top 100 list and features a heartfelt transition as Chris Perfett steps down as host, with Meko Scott stepping in.
Catch the full episode on YouTube, Twitch, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Lions No Longer Kings of the Trenches? NFC North O-Line Rankings Stir Debate
