Top Free Agent Guard Off the Table as Kevin Zeitler Replacement for Lions

Lions Face Tough Decision on Kevin Zeitler’s Future, with Trey Smith as Potential Replacement

The Detroit Lions made a significant move last offseason by signing guard Kevin Zeitler to a one-year, $6 million contract, and the results were impressive. Zeitler had one of the best seasons of his career, cementing himself as one of the biggest steals of 2024 free agency. However, with Zeitler now hitting free agency again, the Lions face a critical decision about whether to bring him back or look for a new option.

Zeitler is expected to command more money and a longer contract this time around, and while he may not be solely focused on the biggest payday, it’s likely multiple teams will vie for his services. The Lions are certainly interested in re-signing him, and Zeitler likely wants to return, but with free agency around the corner, he will explore his market value.

The Need for a Contingency Plan

Should Zeitler depart, the Lions will need a solid contingency plan to maintain their offensive line’s strength. One option being considered is Trey Smith, a top-tier guard from the Kansas City Chiefs. Smith is entering free agency at just 26 years old and is expected to be one of the highest-paid guards on the market. Bleacher Report suggests that if Zeitler leaves, Smith would be an ideal long-term solution for Detroit’s guard position.

Concerns Over Smith’s Pass-Blocking

While Smith is a well-rounded guard, there are some concerns. In the 2024 season, his pass-blocking grades were noticeably lower when facing playoff teams. Against non-playoff teams, Smith had a solid 72.1 pass-blocking grade, but against playoff opponents, that dropped to just 57.6. This disparity could give the Lions pause when considering Smith as their top target.

What’s Next for the Lions?

The Lions’ front office, led by GM Brad Holmes, will surely be weighing all their options carefully, as keeping the offensive line a strength is a top priority. Whether they can bring back Zeitler or pivot to someone like Smith, the outcome of these decisions could have a significant impact on their offense in 2025.