Alternatives for the Detroit Lions to replace G Kevin Zeitler

Alternatives for the Detroit Lions to replace G Kevin Zeitler Kevin Zeitler, the right guard for the Detroit Lions, was traded to the Tennessee Titans in free agency, resulting in a void in the team’s most critical unit.

In 2024, Zeitler, who is 35 years old, achieved a Pro Bowl-level season, which resulted in a one-year, $9 million contract with the Titans. The Lions will now be seeking immediate replacements for right guard and are anticipating the long-term prospects of centre Frank Ragnow and left guard Graham Glasgow, who both exhibited signs of wear and strain last year. As the Lions endeavour to preserve the reputation of their offensive line, it is necessary to examine potential replacements for Zeitler.

This includes: Christian Mahogany Last year, the Lions selected Christian Mahogany in the sixth round of the draft with the expectation that he would develop into a candidate to fill this position. Last season, Mahogany participated in seven games and earned a critical start in Week 16 to replace an injured Glasgow against the Bears. His performance indicated that he should have a strong opportunity to compete for the starting position if the Lions are unable to secure a reliable replacement for Zeitler in free agency.

Mekhi Becton Becton’s age (26) and the success he achieved in Philadelphia last season after transitioning from tackle to guard may render him a worthwhile investment, despite the fact that he is likely priced beyond the Lions’ budget. He was the 21st-ranked guard among qualifying guards in Pro Football Focus’s position rankings, and he was particularly adept at run blocking.

He would have the opportunity to block for Jahmyr Gibbs, another explosive runner, if he were to wind up in Detroit. Teven Jenkins Jenkins, 27, is a 27-year-old football player who is well-versed in the NFC North. Despite the Bears’ offensive line’s general lack of success, Jenkins had a successful year.The Lions’ gritty, downhill mentality is well-suited to his stature and strength, which more than compensate for his lack of explosiveness.

Grey Zabel Grey Zabel, a player from North Dakota State, is another draft prospect who is more likely to be selected by the Lions. In college, Zabel was utilised at four of the five positions on the offensive line, making him a versatile option. His exceptional combine performance and overall attributes indicated that he would become an eventual above-average starter, despite his height of 6’6 and weight of 312 pounds.

There is some apprehension that he may be more effective as a tackle than as a guard; however, possessing this option would not be a detrimental issue for the Lions. Donovan Jackson Donovan Jackson, a guard from Ohio State, is anticipated to be available in the early second round of the draft. This puts him in a position where the Lions could potentially trade up or down to secure him.