INDIANAPOLIS – After the season, Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes stated that he would maintain the talent and depth on the offensive line “hydrated at all times.” Detroit’s offensive strength at the front line is a crucial aspect of this football team’s identity, and ensuring it remains filled with talent and depth will consistently be a priority for Holmes in constructing the roster.
The Lions possess strong talent and depth returning on the offensive line, featuring All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell, All-Pro center Frank Ragnow, Pro-Bowl left tackle Taylor Decker, and starting left guard Graham Glasgow. Detroit also brings back some young talents they are optimistic about, such as guard Christian Mahogany and tackle Giovanni Manu.
However, as Holmes stated, he is always in favor of bringing in talent and depth at the front. Should the team choose not to re-sign Pro-Bowl alternate veteran guard Kevin Zeitler, an unrestricted free agent, they may need to enhance the depth of the interior of Detroit’s offensive line.
This is among the stronger interior offensive line classes to enter the NFL Draft in recent years, as teams seeking assistance can discover starters even late into Day 2. Several players possess tackle/guard versatility as well, a quality that teams find highly valuable.
Ohio State tackle Josh Simmons is regarded as one of the top tackle prospects in the draft, but he mentioned on Saturday that during a meeting with a team, they inquired about his feelings regarding playing inside during his first few seasons.
Teams generally carry only eight offensive linemen on the active roster for game day, making versatility essential.
“Being able to play various positions is highly important in the NFL,” said Grey Zabel of North Dakota State on Saturday. “When all is said and done, I am an offensive lineman.” It solely relies on the hand you place down, the set you assume for your position, and whether you need to snap the football.