The Detroit Lions knew they were getting a good one when they drafted Tate Ratledge in the second round, but he might be even better than expected — and faster.
With longtime center Frank Ragnow retiring, Detroit’s interior O-line suddenly became a major focus heading into the 2025 season. And while veteran Graham Glasgow is currently penciled in at center, Ratledge is quietly making his case to be the long-term solution.
NFL.com’s Gennaro Filice just listed Ratledge as a projected All-Rookie pick at center, praising the former Georgia standout’s athleticism and toughness. Ratledge started three seasons at guard in the SEC and earned first-team All-SEC honors twice — now he’s cross-training at both guard and center for the Lions.
If Glasgow holds down the starting job early, Ratledge may still be waiting in the wings. But if injury strikes or performance dips, he could step in fast and hold his own.
Head coach Dan Campbell even drew a comparison to Erik McCoy, the former Texas A&M center who stepped in immediately as a rookie for the Saints while Campbell was on staff. “We put him in, and by game three or four, he was cooking,” Campbell said.
Detroit still has depth with rookie Miles Frazier and veteran Trystan Colon available, but all eyes are on Ratledge. If he ends up replacing Ragnow without the offense missing a beat, it’s safe to say the Lions struck gold again in the draft.
Lions Rookie Tate Ratledge Already Turning Heads — Could Earn All-Rookie Honors at Center
